Staff at Gettysburg National Military Park are hard at work this week putting together details for the upcoming battle anniversary’s special interpretive programs: Key Moment Programs, Overview Hikes, Battlefield Experience Programs, Voices Programs, Living History Camps and Demonstrations, the Family Activity Tent, the special 150th Junior Ranger Patch and Commemorative Keepsake, and much more. We will have information to share on this blog and on the website in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the Gettysburg Park Rangers have put together this important list of seven steps you can take to prepare for your visit to the battlefield.
Plan well – don’t become a Gettysburg casualty!
1. We suggest that visitors come prepared with water, preferably refillable water bottles. Drinking fountains are available at the Museum and Visitor Center and at selected sites on the battlefield.
2. Apply sunscreen generously and repeatedly throughout the day even if it is overcast. Most programs are outside and last between 30 minutes and two hours.
3. Wear comfortable footwear designed for uneven terrain and for hiking long distances.
4. Carry a cell phone to be used to contact 911 in case of emergency.
5. Please be aware that ticks are common to the Gettysburg area. Reduce your chances of getting a tick-borne disease by using repellents, checking for ticks, and showering after being outdoors. If you have a tick bite followed by a fever or rash, seek medical attention.
6. Upon arrival at the park select a meeting place in case you or your family become separated.
7. Do not leave animals unattended in vehicles even if it just for a few minutes, as interior temperatures rise quickly.
Planning your trip to Gettysburg for the 150th battle anniversary? Follow Gettysburg National Military Park on social media now to get breaking news and updates about events, parking, shuttles and more: http://www.facebook.com/GettysburgNMP and http://www.twitter.com/GettysburgNMP
Thanks to Park Ranger Angie Atkinson for the tips.
Katie Lawhon, Management Assistant, 1/31/13
