Desert Safety

The most critical factor for survival 

in a desert environment is access to 

water. Desert heat can quickly lead 

to dehydration. Always carry extra 

water with you when driving, biking, 

or hiking. Especially in the summer, 

at least one gallon of water per day 

is recommended. Food is important 

to boost both your morale and your 

energy. Keep emergency food, such as 

granola or energy bars, with you at all 

times.

White Sands National Monument is a beautiful and pristine landscape. At times, however, that beauty can bedeceiving, masking the potential for serious injuries that can befall the unwary. It is up to visitors to make sure 

they understand the nature of the environment they are entering and to be aware of hazards they may encounter.

For more information on White Sands, visit http://www.nps.gov/whsa. This publication made possible by the Western National Parks Association.

White Sands National Park Service 

U.S. Department of the Interior

White Sands National Monument

Dress appropriately for the weather. 

In the desert, it is important to wear 

a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 

Carry an extra shirt or light jacket 

in the summer, or a heavy jacket in 

the winter, in case you find yourself 

lost in the dunes after dark when the 

temperature drops.

Exposure to excessive heat can cause 

heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat 

stroke. Painful muscle spasms, usually 

in the legs and abdomen, are the first 

signs of heat stress.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include 

skin that is pale, cool, moist, or 

flushed, as well as headaches, nausea, 

dizziness, weakness, or exhaustion. 

Heat stroke is an emergency 

condition characterized by hot, dry, 

red skin; unconsciousness; rapid 

weak pulse; and shallow breathing.

Hypothermia is a dangerous drop 

in body temperature. Shivering, 

numbness, and unconsciousness are 

all symptoms. Getting the victim to a 

warm place and out of wet clothes as 

soon as possible is critical. Contact 

emergency services immediately.

Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black 

widows are only a few of the 

venomous animals found in New 

Mexico. To avoid a bite, watch where 

you walk, put your hands, or sit. Do 

not step over rocks or logs, and try 

not to walk through thick vegetation 

where visibility is poor. Never try 

to pick up, touch, or tease snakes 

and scorpions or handle spiders and 

insects. If bitten, seek immediate 

medical attention. Bring a photo of 

the animal along for identification if 

possible. Keep in mind that a dead 

rattlesnake can deliver a lethal bite.

Water & Food

Clothing

Getting Lost

It is easy to become disoriented in 

the dunefield. Be sure to tell someone 

where you are going and when you 

will return. Orient yourself to a 

landmark, such as a mountain or 

water tower, and carry a GPS or 

compass with you. 

Heat & Cold Lightning

For all types of heat stress, get the 

victim to a cool location and give 

them small amounts of water or sport 

drink. DO NOT give salt tablets or 

salt water. Loosen tight clothing and 

apply cool wet cloths to the skin. Get 

emergency medical care as soon as 

possible if the victim refuses water, 

vomits, or loses consciousness.

Poisonous Creatures

If you become lost, remain in place 

on top of a dune. A mirror or piece 

of aluminum foil can be used to flash 

sunlight toward potential rescuers. If 

possible, call 911 or the sheriff’s office 

at (575) 437-2210 and describe your 

location to the dispatcher.

Revised 7/20/2014

Lightning often occurs in the desert 

during thunderstorms, even if there 

is no rain. Take cover in a building or 

vehicle if you see a gathering storm or 

hear thunder. Crouch down between 

dunes with your feet together if you 

cannot get to either a car or building.