Dangeds

Sosnowsky's hogweed

One of the main dangers for tourists in summer is Sosnowsky's hogweed (Heracleum sosnowskyi). This perennial plant has big green leaves with acumens and in the blooming period – a big white flower, which shape resembles a dill flower, but many times as large. 

It is in the blooming period that the plant is dangerous, especially when the weather is hot. When essential oils exhaled by Sosnowsky's hogweed come in contact with skin, they cause photochemical burns on it which may lead to skin diseases.

If you came in contact with the plant, cover the skin areas where essential oils could get onto, avoid exposure to the sun light and consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Snakes

In the Carpathians you can come upon venomous snakes, but the cases when they bite humans are very uncommon.

To avoid snake bites you should tread steadily because snakes feel vibrations of the ground with their whole bodies, and mind your steps, especially in high grass and on the roads well lit by the sun.

Wild Animals

The Carpathians are quite densely populated with humans; therefore it is rather unlikely to come upon wild animals. For fear of coming upon a wild boar or even a bear, you should move through the forest with steady steps, talk and by no means prowl. Don’t scare wild animals unless necessary.

Danger of Getting Lost

Avoid taking unmarked routes – people with no skill of taking bearings in the mountains should not go unaccompanied by an experienced guide. Using a topographic map and a compass is a must.

When you go to see rocks you should remember:

• sandstone that makes up the majority of rocks in the Carpathians is slippery, even in dry weather,

• you must never let children climb the rocks unaccompanied.

When going to the mountains you must have a first-aid kit for personal use and the one for common use.

Hiking tours in the mountains that take a few days must be registered at the rescue service.

Lviv mountain search and reconnaissance unit +38(032)239-54-70