Safety

Before departure, study a map of Medvednica and plan your route based on your interests and abilities. Learn about the key features of the mountain and check the weather forecast for the duration of your stay. Also, it’s essential to be prepared for all planned activities, both physically and health-wise.

Choose the best route to your desired destination. If you're using public transport, check out the timetable. If you're planning a break at one of the mountain huts, make sure to check their offer and opening hours ahead of time. Beginner hikers are advised to consider descending by cable car, as the climb is often easier than the descent.

A suitable backpack should contain everything you might need during your stay on Medvednica. Always bring identification and money. Adapt your clothing, footwear and gear to the season and temperatures. Remember, wet clothing, footwear and wind can significantly reduce your sense of warmth, so preparing well is key.

Depending on the duration of your stay, bring enough food and water. Even if you plan to eat at a mountain hut, it's wise to carry snacks such as fruit, an energy bar or a sandwich.

Nature is for enjoyment but it also needs to be taken care of, so take all your waste back with you and dispose of it properly. All you need to bring back from the forest are memories and photographs.

For safety, avoid alcohol and always carry a small first aid kit. Charge your phone before heading out and use text messaging to communicate in areas with weak signal.

Always bring a flashlight, matches, a lighter or a candle – unexpected situations can occur and being well-prepared ensures safety.

In winter, be extra cautious. Low temperatures and quick and early nightfall require extra care when planning your daytrip. Choose routes that match your ability and keep in mind that mountain conditions are often more challenging than they appear.

High-quality appropriate gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. Your choice of clothing and footwear will depend on the season and the weather conditions, so it’s important to be well prepared.

Footwear is one of the most important pieces of hiking gear. The best choice is hiking boots with good ankle support or sturdy comfortable shoes with grooved rubber soles, as they reduce the risk of slipping and injury. In good trail conditions, low-cut hiking shoes or sneakers may do – but you need to be extra careful then.

Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so dress in layers. This allows you to adapt easily to changing conditions – remove a layer as you warm up while walking and put it back on when it gets colder. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s important to change into dry clothes so you can stay warm.

In summer, don’t forget sun protection – use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat or headwrap. In all seasons, be prepared for sudden changes of weather, such as wind, rain, snow or fog.

Always walk on marked and maintained hiking trails. Trail markers are painted on trees or rocks – these are usually circular (a red circle with a white centre) or horizontal stripes (red-white-red).

The number next to the marker indicates the trail number and the letter indicates a hiking loop (e.g., M – Medvednica trail). An “X” marker signifies a crossing and is placed 30–50 metres before it. A red arrow outlined in white signifies direction.

Never hike alone. If an accident occurs, there will be no one to help you. When hiking in a group, match the pace to the slowest hiker. Take enough short breaks and don’t overestimate your abilities. Plan your hike well, to avoid being caught up on the mountain after dark.

Follow the rules of behaviour in a protected natural area. It’s not allowed to pick plants nor disturb animals; making loud noises is not desired either. Also, it’s forbidden to light a fire or to camp out on the mountain.

Carry enough water with you. It can be risky to rely on natural springs, as they often dry up in summer and also their quality is not systematically tested. It is recommended to drink water regularly, in small sips, rather than in large amounts all at once. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy and preventing dehydration, especially during physical activity.

Drink even if you’re not thirsty – your body loses fluids through sweating and lack of water can lead to fatigue, dizziness and reduced stamina. In warmer months, consider bringing also some isotonic drinks, as these replenish electrolytes that are lost through sweating.

Hiking with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it requires responsible behaviour and good preparation. The owner is fully responsible for their dog’s behaviour and must be able to control it at all times. In Medvednica Nature Park, dogs must be kept on a leash – this ensures their safety and also the protection of wildlife and other visitors.

Adapt your hiking route to your dog’s physical capabilities and be mindful of the weather conditions. On hot days, there's a risk of heatstroke; in winter, especially on snow and ice, paw pads may crack. Bring enough water for your dog and allow for breaks so they can rest and refresh.

Also, keep in mind that many mountain huts and restaurants do not allow dogs – respect their rules. And of course, always carry waste bags and clean up after your pet, to keep the mountain clean and pleasant for everyone.

Medvednica is a tame mountain, but accidents can happen. Panic is the worst enemy in those moments, so it’s important to keep calm and follow rules that help in case of an accident:
●    Stay composed – calm yourself and others around you.
●    Ensure safety – protect the injured person and yourself from immediate dangers such as falling, rockslides, choking, cold or humidity, in the best possible way.
●    Provide first aid – help the injured person as much as your knowledge and abilities allow.
●    Mark the site of the accident or the location of the injured person, especially in wintertime, to make sure it’s easier to locate.
●    Call for help – immediately contact the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS), who are trained to help in mountain emergencies. You can also call them if your pet has an accident.
By staying calm and taking appropriate action, you can help significantly in preventing major consequences of the accident. 

ACCIDENT REPORT ON MEDVEDNICA – HGSS INTERVENTION

In case of an accident that requires an intervention by the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS), you can report it in the following ways:
●    to the unique emergency communication centre – just dial 112
●    by calling the emergency numbers of HGSS stations – you can find the phone numbers on the official HGSS website
●    to the HGSS info points – the equipped mountain huts marked with an HGSS sign
●    to the police – call 192
●    to medical emergency services – dial 194
●    to any member of the HGSS

 

The report should include the following key information:

●    the full name and phone number of the person reporting the accident
●    where they are calling from and how they found out about the accident
●    the site of the accident – the location where the accident took place
●    information about the injured person – full name, age and address
●    description of the event – what happened exactly and what were the circumstances