Although hunting for fossils is a fun and easy pastime, safety should always come first. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure your adventures are safe and enjoyable.

Know Before You Go

Learn a little bit about the area before you venture out, as some field trips require extra planning. Fossil sites such as Joggins and Parrsboro, for example, are subject to extremely high tides. Check local newspapers for tide tables, which are essential for exploring seacoasts or tidal rivers. It is a good idea to take along a map of the area (this will also help you document your finds).

Always heed "Warning" and "No Trespassing" signs.

Fossil Hunting Fashions

When hunting for fossils, clothing is an important safety consideration. Strong clothing, such as denim, will protect your skin from sharp rocks. Gloves and shirts with long sleeves are also very helpful.

Make sure your footwear is appropriate. Comfortable and sturdy boots, especially those with steel toes, give protection against falling objects and help in rough terrain.

Wear a hardhat if you plan to be near cliff faces or in caves. A hockey or bicycle helmet will do in a pinch. Seacliffs in particular can be very unstable because of the constant eroding action of the ocean. While the beaches near such cliffs can be a good source of loose fossils, don't forget your hardhat or helmet!

Safety in the Field

Sometimes, fossils are hidden inside rocks and it might be helpful to split a rock open. Only do this with loose rocks! Extracting fossils that are imbedded in the bedrock is illegal unless you have a Heritage Research Permit. Use a rock hammer to split open rocks, not a claw hammer (carpenter's hammer) with a wooden handle. Claw hammers are not meant for hammering rocks and can be very dangerous!

When splitting rocks, hammer in a direction away from your body. Don't hit too hard: light taps will often do the trick and give you more control. Beware of others in the area who might be hit with flying rock chips. Wear proper safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes while hammering.

Watch out for falling rocks and don't stand too close to a cliff, especially if there are overhanging rocks.