code of conduct

From South Georgia Website

(2011)

When ashore:

• Visitors must know their capabilities and also the dangers posed by South Georgia's environment, and act accordingly. Plan activities with safety in mind at all times.

• Visitors should take note of and act on, the advice and instructions from leaders and staff. Do not stray from the group.

• Be prepared for severe and changeable weather. Ensure that equipment and clothing are of sufficient strength and quality to withstand Antarctic conditions. Remember that South Georgia's weather is unpredictable, so when ashore be prepared for the worst, however pleasant it may seem when setting out.

• Do not walk on to glaciers or snowfields without proper equipment and experience. Surface conditions are constantly changing, particularly in the present period of glacial retreat.

• Avoid walking on fragile vegetation. A footprint on a moss bank may remain there a long time; trampling of vegetation, especially in wet and peaty soils, can cause significant erosion over time. Moss beds and the margins of streams and lakes are particularly fragile.

• Do not collect plants, skulls, bones, teeth or eggs or any other items. No items or scientific specimens may be removed from South Georgia without an export permit from GSGSSI.

• Be careful when taking photographs or filming. Do not disturb plants or animals to get better pictures.

• Always give wildlife the right of way.

• Do not injure or kill any animals.

• Firearms may not be brought into South Georgia, except with the express permission of the Commissioner.

• Take back all rubbish. Rubbish takes a long time to break down, spoiling the natural appearance of the site and encouraging the presence of rats.

• Do not pollute lakes or streams.

• Do not remove, disturb or destroy any historical artefacts.

• Do not paint or engrave names or graffiti on rocks or buildings; or deface or vandalise any field huts or other structures.

• Avoid marked sites where scientific experiments are going on and do not disturb any scientific equipment.

• Do not smoke where there might be any risk of starting a fire in buildings or vegetation.