Visitor safety

We rarely head out for an outdoor adventure with the expectation that something will go wrong, and most times everything will go right. However, sometimes the unexpected happens and when it does, it is important that you are well informed and well prepared to minimize the negative impact of unfortunate circumstances. 

For general information on how to stay safe when enjoying the outdoors, visit Adventure Smart. 

For important information about staying safe while enjoying Skmaqn—Port-la-Joye—Fort Amherst National Historic Site, please explore the topics below. 

On this page

• Plan ahead
• Hot weather
• Winter and shoulder seasons
• Wildlife safety
• Coastal and cliff safety
• Visiting with pets
• Protecting this special place
• Emergencies
• Visitor Guidelines

Plan before you arrive

• Check weather and tide conditions before your visit.
• Dress for changing coastal weather and wear sturdy footwear.
• Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and insect protection, especially in summer.
• There are limited services on site—be prepared to be self-sufficient.

Staying safe in hot weather

Warm and sunny days can increase the risk of heat-related illness.

On hot days:

• Drink water often, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Take breaks in shaded areas and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
• Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, headache, nausea, or confusion.

Staying safe in winter and shoulder seasons

Conditions can change quickly outside the summer months.

In winter, fall, and spring:

• Expect icy or muddy surfaces, strong winds, and colder temperatures.
• Dress in warm, layered clothing and wear footwear with good traction.
• Stay back from cliff edges and coastal bluffs, which may be unstable.
• Some facilities and services may be unavailable.

Wildlife safety

Wild animals live here year-round. For their safety and yours, observe wildlife from a distance.

• Never approach, feed, or attempt to touch wildlife.
• Keep children and pets close to you.
• If you encounter wildlife, give it space and calmly move away.
• Store food securely and dispose of waste properly to avoid attracting animals.

Coastal and cliff safety

• This site includes steep slopes and coastal edges.
• Stay well back from cliff edges and unstable ground.
• Watch for erosion, loose rocks, and sudden drop-offs.
• Be aware of changing tides and strong coastal winds.

Visiting with pets

• Pets are welcome but must be kept safe.
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
• Clean up after your pet and pack out pet waste.
• Keep pets away from wildlife and cultural features.
• Pets should not be left unattended in vehicles at any time. With an outside temperature of 27 degrees Celsius your car can reach 42 degrees Celsius within minutes. 

Protecting this special place

As a Parks Canada-administered place, Skmaqn—Port-la-Joye—Fort Amherst is protected for future generations.

Please remember to:

• Pack out what you pack in or use the provided garbage bins when available.
• Stay on designated paths and respect closed areas.
• Do not remove natural or cultural objects.
• Do not damage archaeological, cultural, or interpretive features.
• Open fires and camping are not permitted.
• The use of metal detectors is a prohibited activity at Skmaqn-Port-La-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site.

Emergencies

For local weather information: PEI weather conditions by location

Emergency Contact Information

• Police/Fire/Ambulance  911
• Parks Canada Dispatch (Safety/Fire/Wildlife) 1-877-852-3100

In an Emergency:

Help can be attained by talking with Parks Canada staff or through calling Parks Canada Dispatch.

Cell phones do not work in certain areas.  Check with your local carrier to verify your coverage.

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. At Parks Canada, we do our part to make sure you can have a safe visit by assessing the risks, managing hazards, and making sure that safety information is freely available to everyone. You can do your part as visitors by making sure you seek out the information you need to stay safe and make well informed decisions while enjoying these special places. Visit the website and stop at a visitor centre to speak with Parks Canada staff for the most up to date information. Make sure you are fully prepared for whatever activities you choose to participate in so you can have a safe, enjoyable and memorable visit.