Two separate hiking rescues occurred last week in Arizona parks, prompting officials to remind hikers about safety precautions as temperatures rise across the state.
Blinking Light Leads to Successful Rescue on Arizona Trail
The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) Posse mobilized on Saturday, April 12th at 6:51 pm to locate a missing individual along the Arizona Trail. Teams established a command post in Florence, and the Department of Public Safety dispatched a helicopter to transport search teams to the area.
After deploying the first team of two posse members to interview the reporting party on the trail, the DPS helicopter crew spotted a blinking light while en route to collect another search team. This discovery led them directly to the missing hiker, who was found uninjured and safely transported back to the command post for evaluation.
San Tan Park Emergency Response
Just days earlier, on April 10th, Rural Metro Fire units responded to a hiker in need of rescue on the Dynamite Trail in San Tan Regional Park. The rescue required multiple units, including E841, E842, B841, BC840, and AMR597, with assistance from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Fox Helicopter crew.
Rural Metro Fire emphasized how taxing trail rescues are on emergency crews and resources. They reminded hikers to take plenty of water, especially in hot weather, and to turn back when halfway through their water supply.
Hiking Safety Concerns
As Arizona enters the warmer months, park officials stress the importance of hiking safety. According to Arizona State Parks guidelines, more than 200 hikers require rescue each year in Phoenix alone.
Water: The Critical Resource
Experts from Arizona State Parks recommend several key safety practices for hikers. First, always carry sufficient water and drink consistently throughout your hike. The recommendation is to consume half a liter to a full liter every hour, depending on weather conditions and exercise intensity. Hikers should turn back before reaching the halfway point of their water supply.
Safety in Numbers
According to hiking safety guidance from Arizona State Parks, hiking with companions improves safety. Groups can check on each other, make better decisions together, and call for help if needed. Solo hikers should carry a cell phone and inform someone about their planned route and expected return time.
Preparation Is Key
Arizona State Parks’ hiking safety guidelines suggest additional safety tips including wearing appropriate footwear, applying sunscreen, wearing light-colored and breathable clothing, and checking weather conditions before heading out. Early morning or late evening hikes are recommended to avoid the intense midday heat.
Ten Essential Hiking Tips
Rural Metro Fire shared a comprehensive list of hiking tips, including:
- Take plenty of water and stay hydrated
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return
- Take a trail map or photo of the trail map
- Carry a fully charged cell phone (use airplane mode to preserve battery)
- Hike within your abilities
- Turn back when halfway through your water supply
- Hike in groups
- Stay on marked trails
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- Enjoy safely
Arizona State Parks offers numerous hiking options across the state, from desert trails to mountain paths. All hikers are encouraged to “Take a Hike. Do it Right” by preparing adequately and making safety the top priority.
