Safety and guidelines

Ukkusiksalik National Park

The remoteness of this area and limited rescue capability increase the risk of the challenging natural hazards. All visitors must be prepared to deal with extreme and rapidly changing weather, unpredictable river crossings, high winds, and travel in polar bear country. You must be self-reliant and responsible for your own safety.

Visitor guidelines

Ukkusiksalik National Park regulations, prohibited activities, registration information, environmental conservation practices and more.

Emergencies and rescue capability

Emergency services, search and rescue, and how to prepare for medical, wildlife and weather-related emergencies in Ukkusiksalik.

Communications

Connect to emergency services from Ukkusiksalik using a satellite phone, InReach device or personal locator beacon.

Camping safety

Always camp in hard-sided accommodations or with an outfitter equipped with a polar bear fence, and camp well away from the floe edge.

Travel

Important information on emergency medical travel in Nunavut and travelling to Ukkusiksalik with dangerous goods.

River crossings

River crossings in Ukkusiksalik can be dangerous. Pack the right gear, plan ahead and follow safe crossing techniques.

Weather, hypothermia and frostbite

Protect yourself in Ukkusiksalik’s arctic climate. Bring the right equipment and be prepared for hazardous weather conditions.

Polar bear safety

How to avoid and manage polar bear encounters in Ukkusiksalik, where to camp, and information on deterrents and warning systems.

Wildlife safety

Safety tips to avoid and manage encounters with polar bears, foxes, wolves, and other wildlife in Ukkusiksalik National Park.

Polar bears are far more abundant in Ukkusiksalik than in most other national parks in the Arctic. Several encounters are likely on any trip. Because of this extreme danger, visitors must travel in the park with a properly equipped and trained guide who is experienced in polar bear country.

Safety is everyone's responsibility. At Parks Canada, we do our part to make sure you can have a safe visit by assessing the risks, managing hazards, and making sure that safety information is freely available to everyone. You can do your part as visitors by making sure you seek out the information you need to stay safe and make well-informed decisions while enjoying these special places. Visit our websites and stop at a visitor center to speak with our employees for the most up to date information. Make sure you are fully prepared for whatever activities you choose to participate in so you can have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable visit.

For general information on how to stay safe and a list of the 10 essential items you should bring when enjoying the outdoors visit adventuresmart.ca

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