Search-and-rescue operations can be very expensive, which is why many states now charge or fine “rescuees” for the cost of a rescue if their actions are deemed negligent, such as improperly preparing for a winter hike in the mountains or engaging in overly risky behavior.

If you hike in New Hampshire, you might consider purchasing a Hike Safe card from the state’s Department of Fish & Game. The voluntary card costs $25 a year for individuals, $35 for families, and serves as a sort of insurance policy, providing “protections from certain liabilities for rescue costs”, even if you acted negligently. The card also covers other outdoor recreational activities, such as mountain biking, skiing, climbing, and paddling.

More than 12,000 NH Hike Safe cards were sold in 2022, and all revenue from the card sales is placed in a dedicated Search & Rescue fund, in addition to $1 from each boat, snowmobile, and ATV registered in New Hampshire. Hike Safe card sales brought in more than $75,000 to the Search & Rescue Fund in 2015, the first year they were available.

Note that hikers do not need a Hike Safe card to cover rescue costs if they have already purchased a New Hampshire fishing license, or if they’ve registered a boat, snowmobile, or ATV in the state.

For more information on the NH Hike Safe Card program, visit the NH Fish & Game website.