In the U.S. there has been an increase in the number of outdoor recreationists requiring rescue. While it might seem logical that this trend results from the increasing numbers of outdoor enthusiasts, other factors contribute. Mass media give wide exposure to outdoor activities and use outdoor recreation to market many products and services. Such advertising and televised broadcasts of outdoor sports seldom emphasize the importance of preparation and training and often encourage risk-taking among weekend participants. National Park rangers suggest that rather than learning skills from wilderness veterans, recreationists now jump right into participation and rely on cellular phones to call for help. The increased use of cell phones in the wilderness also means that people launch search and rescue operations casually, without trying to get themselves out of trouble. Even if participants are prepared and use good judgment, certain environments present unique hazards that contribute to accidents, injury, and death. A section on alpine environments discusses recommended equipment for mountain day hikes, numbers of mountaineering accidents per year, primary causes of accidents, contributing factors, and participant age. Contributing factors and accident prevention are also discussed for desert environments, winter activities, and whitewater sports. Contains references and a bibliography. (SV)