All emergency cards

Desert trips and getting stuck in sand

If anyone is in danger, call your local emergency number first. In the UAE:

Not in the UAE? Call your local emergency number. All UAE numbers by emirate

What to do now

• Lower tyre pressure to about 20 psi or less on soft sand, and drive slowly.^{Department of Biodiver}
• If you get stuck, stop spinning the wheels. Reverse gently in your own tracks, then go forward.^{Department of Biodiver}
• Still stuck? Let out more air, down to about 10 psi in very soft sand.^{Department of Biodiver}
• Dig a clear path for each tyre, then drive out.^{Department of Biodiver}
• If the car breaks down, stay with it. It gives shade and is easier for rescuers to see.^{US National Park Servi}
• Avoid hard effort in extreme heat, drink water freely, and wear a hat and sunscreen.^{US National Park Servi}
• For headache, dizziness or heavy sweating, get out of the heat and take frequent sips of cool water.^CDC
• Confusion, slurred speech or passing out can mean heat stroke. Call for help and cool them fast.^CDC

Full guide and sources

UAE numbers source: u.ae. Steps summarised from official sources listed on the full guide.