USEFUL INFORMATION WHEN IN NATURE

Finland’s nature can be rewarding and offer many wonderful experiences.

No matter what outdoor activity you choose, remember to be safe.

In the case of an incident, accident or emergency: 

Call 112. There is only one emergency number in Finland, which should only be called in the case of a genuine emergency requiring urgent assistance.

  • Call if you have an emergency or require urgent assistance from authorities
  • Call if you know or suspect somebody’s life, health, property of the environment is under threat or danger 
  • DO NOT call for general enquiries or advice 
  • DO NOT call to report non-life threatening disturbances such as power outages

Medical advice 24/7. For advice regarding acute health issues or health emergencies, call 116 117.

For Poison Control (24/7), call 0800 147 111. 

General Outdoor Safety

Always have a map. Whether online or offline, digital or not, always have a map. 
  • Getting in and around Seinäjoki is possible by car, train, bus, cycling or walking. Directions and a map of Seinäjoki’s public transport can be accessed through CityApp. 
  • Physical trail maps and general maps of the Kyrkösjärvi Lake area can be found at Nature House Käpälikkö.
Weather. Finland’s weather ranges from roughly -30°C (or lower) during the winter to +30°C (or higher) during the summer. The Finnish Meteorological Institute provides live weather information, as well as warnings and weather-related precautions, such as fire bans/wildfire warnings, stormy weather or floods.
  • Campfires are not a part of Everyman’s Rights and are only allowed when no warnings are in effect.
Wildlife and plants. Remember to never approach, feed or disturb wild animals. You should only pick and forage plants that you can identify 100%: ripe berries and mushrooms that are identified as edible.
  • Mushrooms can be very poisonous and can cause serious injury if consumed. In the case that an unknown mushroom or plant has been consumed, go immediately to the hospital or call the emergency number along with a sample of the plant/mushroom. 
  • If you come across an injured animal, contact Seinäjoki’s Regional Animal Welfare Association or animal rescue: 0600 399 001
  • Harmful insects, ticks in particular, are becoming more prevalent in Finland. Inspect your hair and body, as well as your pets after you’ve been outdoors.

Everyman’s Right 

Everyone in Finland – Finnish citizen or otherwise – has a right to enjoy nature anywhere in the wilderness, regardless of land ownership. This, of course, must be done in a mutually respective way. For example, everyone is allowed to pick berries and mushrooms, walk, ski and cycle in a way that does not disturb people or damage property. It is not allowed to trespass too close to nearby homes, private buildings, farming fields, nurseries or plantations. More information can be found here.

Fishing in Finland:

Simple fishing with a line and rod, as well as ice fishing, fall in accordance with Everyman’s Rights. For anyone between the ages of 18-69, all other forms require a fishing license, which can easily be acquired online. You may find that you need a national fishing license in addition to a regional fishing license.

Boating and water activities:

Check weather conditions and wear appropriately sized life vest. During the winter, check ice thickness before venturing out onto frozen water.

Other permits

Hunting or driving motor vehicles off-road require a permit, license and/or permission from the landowner.

Good Manners in Nature

  1. Respect nature and the environment 
  2. Stick to designated marked routes 
  3. Camp only in designated areas
  4. Use only designated campfire sites and use the firewood provided. 
  5. Leave no trace and don’t litter. 
  6. Keep animals on a leash. 

We hope with this information that you can experience Seinäjoki’s local nature in the most safe and rewarding way.

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