There are many safety issues in the Red River Gorge. On this page, we will address issues that seem to be of the biggest concern to this specific area of the Danial Boone National Forest. For more detailed information, the USFS Saftey Page provides a comprehensive guide on the subject.

The clifflines in the Red River Gorge are beautiful, but they are also dangerous. Every year, visitors are injured or killed by a fall from a cliff in the Danial Boone National Forest. A neighbor of mine fell to his death in the Gorge in the summer of 2005, so PLEASE consider these safety tips provided by the USFS:

* Avoid camping near the edge of cliffs. You may be closer to the edge than you realize.
* Alcohol and cliffs don’t mix! If you drink, avoid getting close to cliffs.
* Foot travel after dark is not safe. If you must travel after dark, stay in familiar areas and use a flashlight.
* Plan to arrive at your destination before dark.
* Watch your footing when walking near cliffs. Trees and bushes can’t be trusted to hold you if you slip.
* Watch your children carefully, and keep them close to you at all times. Don't let them run.

Vehicle break-ins. True, this won't kill you, but it is more likey to happen than dying from a venomous snake bite, or getting attacked by a bear, so it is worth addressing here. To help avoid this unnatural danger, the USFS recommends that you:

* Lock your car. As simple as this seems, many people still forget.
* Don’t leave your travel plans on the windshield of your car. Thieves use this "window of opportunity" to break in, since they know you may not be nearby.
* Don’t leave valuables inside your car. If you must leave valuables, hide them from view or lock them in the trunk. Empty the glove compartment and leave it open to show that nothing is inside.
* Don’t park your car with the trunk backed toward the woods. This provides cover for someone trying to break into your trunk.

If your car has been vandalized, contact local law enforcement officials. Here's a handy number to have:
KY State Police: 1-800-222-5555

General Safety Considerations:

* Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, and when you plan to return.
* Do not hike or camp alone.
* Approaching or feeding wild animals is never a good idea. Keep your distance.