Security

Outdoor activities can involve certain risks, so always be sure to have the skills and abilities required for the activity you choose. Your abilities must not be impaired by alcohol, a drug or medication. It is very important to find out about the risks involved in the activity, to know and respect your own limits and to use appropriate equipment.

Sépaq has been making the best landscapes of Québec nature as accessible as possible for a number of years. However in addition to this mission, it is also concerned with visitor safety.

All visitors remain responsible for their own safety, with risk management being an integral part of the outdoor experience. Preparing yourself adequately is the first step in the safe and enjoyable practice of your favourite activities.

We invite you to consult our safety guides for Sépaq activities.

The costs and expenses incurred in conducting search and rescue operations are the responsibility of the beneficiary. We invite you to get insurance coverage on these risks.

Sépaq wishes you an unforgettable outdoor experience!

Supervised bathing is offered at certain Sépaq establishments and on sites designated for this purpose. We recommend that you engage in this activity only at these locations and according to the instructions in effect.

Unsupervised bathing in all other locations is at your own risk. This is not recommended as there is a considerable risk of drowning. Always remember that a waterway may present an unseen danger (steep slope, slippery bottom, etc.). Although unsupervised bathing is strongly discouraged, if you choose to do so please make sure that you are not alone or that you have informed others of your intention to bathe and that you are not impaired.

River bathing: special risks

Although the river may seem calm and safe, it is a natural environment with unexpected sources of danger and can quickly become hazardous. Despite your best efforts, the strong current can drag you down and put you at risk of drowning. The presence of eddies, unstable bottoms, branches and rocks, and variations in depth also increase the risk of drowning. In addition, be doubly vigilant near a dam.

Remember that your safety is your own responsibility.

The information and instructions to follow are intended to promote safe accommodation during your stay at one of our Sépaq-network establishments.

• The dangers of carbon monoxyde and recommendations
• What to do in case of fire

Sépaq's mission is to actively contribute to fire prevention, an essential element in protecting our environment, our communities, and our natural resources.

Find out more about regulations in force

Forest roads located in wildlife reserves are public, multi-use roads. They are used by a variety of users, including visitors, land managers, as well as logging and mining companies.

Driving in a forest environment differs from driving on paved roads. Conditions can change rapidly and present specific risks. Adopting cautious and responsible behaviour is essential to ensure everyone’s safety and promote harmonious coexistence on the wildlife reserve road network.

Good driving practices

• Always obey speed limits and adapt your driving to road conditions, the presence of other users, the environment, and weather conditions.
• Wear your seatbelt at all times.
• Traffic can kick up a lot of dust, reducing visibility. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
• Stay to the right and avoid passing, especially on curves or in areas with reduced visibility.
• You are driving in a wilderness area, where wildlife is more common. Pay special attention to large game near the roads.
• Park your vehicle only in safe locations, so as not to obstruct traffic or visibility.

Things to consider before setting out

• Cell phone service may be limited in wildlife reserves. It is recommended that you bring alternative means of communication, such as a satellite phone, public band radios (CB), or any other appropriate device.
• Weather conditions can quickly affect the condition of forest roads. Check conditions before you leave and adjust your route and driving accordingly.

By following these best practices, you contribute to your own safety as well as that of other users, while promoting responsible and respectful use of the wildlife territory.

If you have been bitten by an unknown animal or have come into contact with its saliva,

• Do not wait: clean the wound for 10 to 15 minutes with soap and water, even if the bite seems minor.
• Contact Info-Santé 811.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself while helping to control rabies in raccoons:

• Do not move wild or stray animals about. An animal that appears healthy can spread rabies to new sectors.
• Ensure that your dog is vaccinated against rabies, if applicable.
• Report raccoons, skunks, or foxes exhibiting abnormal behavior in the Estrie or Montérégie regions by calling 1-877-346-6763 or online. For more information on surveillance and control operations in these regions, visit the Gouvernement du Québec website.
• Do not touch dead animals and keep your distance from wild animals, even if they are injured, sick, or orphaned.

It is your responsibility to inform your guests of the inherent risks involved in the activity you have chosen, including the information provided in the safety guides.

In emergency situations, call 911 or the Sûreté du Québec at 310-4141 or if calling from a cell phone, dial 4141 (where cell phone networks are available).