Vancouver, Whistler & Vancouver Island - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 902

Thanksgiving Day Second Monday in October (Canada); fourth Thursday in November
(USA)
Veterans' Day November 11 (USA)
Remembrance Day November 11 (Canada)
Christmas Day December 25 (USA and Canada)
Boxing Day December 26 (Canada)
Safe Travel
The Pacific Northwest is generally a friendly and safe place to travel, though crime does
exist - mostly in bigger cities. Take the usual precautions :
» Don't leave valuables visible in your vehicle, whether you're in a busy downtown street
or at a remote hiking trailhead.
» Use ATMs in well-trafficked areas. In hotels, use safe-deposit boxes or place things in a
locked bag.
» Ask around for neighborhoods to avoid. If you find yourself in a questionable place, act
like you know where you're going, even if you don't.
» Panhandlers are a problem in any city. Many suffer from psychiatric problems and drug
abuse, but most are harmless. It's an individual judgment call whether to offer them any-
thing - you might offer food if you have it. If you want to contribute toward a long-term
solution, consider donating to a reputable charity that cares for the homeless.
» If you're accosted by a mugger, always hand over the goods fast - nothing is worth get-
ting attacked. Some people keep a 'false' stash of cash to placate a possible mugger.
Here are some tips on local livestock or wildlife:
» Drivers should watch out for loose cattle and horses in remote countryside areas.
» When camping in bear country, use bear containers/boxes or hang food correctly. While
hiking in bear country, wear bear bells or talk loudly to avoid surprising them. Bears will
generally avoid people when they can. Never feed bears or other wildlife!
» It's unlikely you'll even glimpse a mountain lion (also called a cougar or puma). Adult
travelers aren't much at risk of an attack, but unattended children and pets can be. Loud
noises and making yourself appear bigger (hold open your jacket) will usually scare them
off.
» Rattlesnakes live in dry desert country and hikers can sometimes encounter them bask-
ing on trails. Give them a wide berth and they'll leave you alone. Wearing thick hiking
boots offers some protection, as does staying out of thick underbrush.