While it’s certainly smart to think about safety and take precautions when visiting a park or natural area, it’s also important be realistic and keep things in perspective. While visitors often come to the park fearing rattlesnakes, coyotes or black bears, the actual risks much more mundane.
So, we asked the folks who answer the emergency calls, “What are the real dangers at Devil’s Lake State Park?” Here’s the list;
- Slips, trips & falls.
- Overexertion. Not physically prepared.
- Medical Issues. (Respiratory, Cardiac, Allergies, etc.)
- Intoxication & drug related problems.
- Drowning & water related injuries.
- Getting lost or stranded. Usually due to weather or time of day.
The Bottom Line
When you look at that list it’s pretty obvious what gets folks into trouble. The bluff trails climb and descend over 500 feet in elevation often on rough, uneven staircases. At the top, there are many cliff edge overlooks without fences or railings. People slip, trip and fall. Sometimes to their deaths. Sometimes medical issues, drugs, and alcohol are also involved.
People are often not prepared. They are not dressed properly, nor are they aware of their surroundings, time of day or changing weather conditions. People often assume they can’t get lost in such a “small” park and don’t bother with a map. (Cell service is sketchy in some locations.) Some visitors push beyond their level of fitness, especially for that bluff top view. In these cases, good days go bad very quickly.
Notice what is NOT on the list; wildlife. The park is home to rattlesnakes, coyotes, and bobcats. There are rare sightings of bears, cougars and the occasional wolf passing through. Yet there has only been one person reported bitten by a rattlesnake in the 1930s and one dog more recently. Simply leave the wildlife alone.
* Thank you to the Baraboo District Ambulance Service‘s Ropes Rescue folks for the list! Remember, if you do get in trouble at Devil’s Lake, CALL 911.