Crime, Fire, Search & Rescue on Trails

Before going into the woods, hikers should know how to handle emergency situations - the things you would call 911 for if you were at home or work. These include medical problems, felonies and serious misdemeanors, fire, and lost hikers. Petty offenses can be handled by more normal means. Who to call depends on where you are but 911 is always a good first try if you don't know anything more specific. SAR = Search & Rescue.

• New York: Dutchess - 911, Putnam - 911, Orange - xxx, Rockland - xxx
  • Fire - DEC is the lead agency on backcountry fires in any county, Region 3 (845) xxx-xxxx (mid Catskills and south) Region 4 (518) xxx-xxxx.
  • SAR - local park or park police. East of Hudson (845) 889-4100, Catskills (see above), West of Hudson (845) xxx-xxxx
  • Crime - local park or park police. East of Hudson (845) 889-4100, Catskills (see above), West of Hudson (845) xxx-xxxx
• New Jersey
• Appalachian Trail - 24 hour emergency number (800) 732-0911

Last updated: 01/18/01