HEALTH AND SAFETY INFO

The ascent of Haiku Stairs is not a trivial endeavor. The roughly 2,400-foot ascent is physically taxing and exposes the climber to extremes of heat, wet, and wind. In wet weather the Stairs are extremely slippery, and a fall could have serious consequences. There is no guarantee of a quick rescue, as the weather is unpredictable and the mountains often obscured by clouds. Retrieval of a disabled climber from the Stairs would be difficult and potentially dangerous. If you climb, you assume these risks of your own free will. Act with appropriate caution for your own safety and that of other climbers.

There is no guarantee that a hand or foot hold will not slip or give way. Climbers should practice the mountaineering maxim of having three solid points of contact at all times: move one foot or hand at a time, keeping a good purchase with the others. Pace your rate of ascent to your respiration; do not become exhausted or out of breath. Stay alert to how you feel, and moderate yourself accordingly. Those with heart conditions or those with other physical ailments should consult their doctors before attempting this climb.

The typical ascent takes two to three hours; the descent requires about 2/3 the ascent time. Descent can be especially slippery and dangerous—TAKE YOUR TIME. The climb consumes about 820 to 1,380 calories, depending on your body weight. The heat and humidity, especially on the first half of the climb, can combine to dangerous levels, possibly leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Bring lots of water, and be sure to drink it. When climbing up and meeting a down-climbing party, one party should find a safe place, test the rail, step one leg over the rail, and let the other party go past.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:

• Call 911, or send someone for help.

• Mark the location with bright material.

• Stay with the victim to render assistance.

SAFETY TIPS

PLEASE DO NOT:

• Yell or attract attention unless you need help.

• Go beyond fenced areas.

• Throw objects or light fires.

• Leave litter or trash.

• Deface structures or plants.

PLEASE DO:

• Sign in and out at the bottom.

• Wear sturdy, non-skid shoes.

• Bring and drink lots of water.

• Bring a high energy snack.

• Bring a cellular telephone.

• Climb with at least one other person.

• Be prepared for wet, cold weather.

• Bring a light if starting late in the day.

• Pace yourself; turn back if you feel unwell.

• Be courteous to other climbers.

• Enjoy the climb — it is a unique experience!