Preparing for your trip
-	Preparing for a trip to the forest begins at home. Look at your route, check the weather forecast and think carefully about exactly where you want to go. Good preparation helps you avoid difficult situations out in nature.
-	Always check the map before you set off. Find out where the route goes, how long it is and how challenging it is. Plan your timing carefully as well, so that you avoid the periods when an encounter with a bear is more likely – dawn, dusk and night.
-	Save important phone numbers to your phone before you leave home – above all the European emergency number 112, which operates in English. That way you will be able to react quickly if an unexpected situation arises.
-	As well as water and a small snack, remember to pack a hiking map, a fully charged mobile phone, a first aid kit, a whistle or another acoustic deterrent, and bear spray. A small pocket knife is also worth taking. If you are heading out with a dog, bring a leash as well.
-	Park your car only in designated car parks or authorised parking areas. Do not drive onto forest tracks and do not block access routes.
-	At the start of the route, read the visitor information boards carefully. They provide maps, recommended routes and important information about the area. Stick to marked trails and follow its markings. 
-	Put your dog on a leash before you enter the forest. A dog running loose may provoke a bear and draw it towards you.
-	If you come across warning signs or restrictions, always respect them. They may relate to nature conservation, safety risks or temporary closures. By following the rules, you protect both yourself and the natural environment.
-	Enter the forest calmly and with respect. Be aware that you are entering the natural habitat of wild animals. Behaving responsibly in nature helps to prevent conflicts between people and wildlife.