Staying safe in New York State
New York covers two very different kinds of safety: ordinary city sense in New York City, and genuine wilderness preparation in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Add winter weather and water safety, and a little planning by region goes a long way.
In the city
Keep an eye on belongings on crowded subways and in tourist areas, and plan your route home before going out late. Dial 911 for emergencies; New York City's 311 service handles non-emergency questions and city services. Check local alerts during your visit.
The subway operates around the clock, but overnight work can change routes and service frequency. Check the current MTA service information and your final connection, and use well-used stations and cars when traveling at quieter times. Adjust your plans to the conditions around you.
Mountains and wilderness
The Adirondacks and Catskills need backcountry preparation. Carry a map and navigation backup, a headlamp, layers, food, water, first-aid and emergency supplies; check conditions, tell someone your route and expected return, and keep the group together. Plan to finish in daylight, while carrying enough equipment for an unexpected delay. For an emergency, call 911 or DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch at 1-833-697-7264 when a connection is available.
Keep your distance from bears and follow the food-storage rules for the area. DEC requires bear-resistant canisters for overnight users in the Eastern High Peaks Wilderness from April 1 through November 30 and encourages their use throughout the Adirondack backcountry. Store food, rubbish, toiletries and other scented items securely. Check DEC’s current regional trail notices before setting out.
Weather and water
Winter is serious upstate. The Adirondacks get deep cold and snow, and the Buffalo and Syracuse areas see intense lake-effect snowstorms that can shut roads quickly, so watch the forecast and build slack into winter plans. Downstate, occasional coastal storms affect Long Island and the city.
Swim only in designated areas while a lifeguard is on duty, and follow posted closures, warning flags and lifeguard instructions. Ocean and Great Lakes beaches can have dangerous currents. Call ahead for current swimming hours because staffing and seasons vary, and watch children closely even where lifeguards are present.
Reviewed source trail
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation — outdoor safety — checked 2026-09-12
- NYC.gov — 911 and 311 services — checked 2026-09-12
- New York State Parks — beaches and swimming — checked 2026-09-12
- New York State DEC — Hike Smart preparation — checked 2026-09-12
- New York State DEC — current Adirondack backcountry notices — checked 2026-09-12
- New York State Parks — designated swimming and lifeguard hours — checked 2026-09-12