LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Safety issues are top-of-mind for Metro Police and members of Red Rock Search and Rescue as they know more people will venture out before popular trails close in May for the summer season as temperatures stay dangerously high.
That’s why both groups hosted a Stroll With Patrol event in Mountain’s Edge to make sure hikers know what to look out for, saying the information can save lives.
Vice Commander Steve Smith with Red Rock Search and Rescue knows what it takes to have a successful hike, and more importantly, how quickly things can go south.
“The heat is accumulative and it really has a reaction on the body, especially if you’re hiking in canyons because the heat is being radiated from the canyon walls, the hot rock floors on your feet and the sun coming down a lot of times, that’s underestimated,” Smith said. “The thing is to understand the dangers you’re putting yourself into. So, if you want to hike, maybe pick early in the morning or pick a shorter trail and just have enough water with you and understand the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration, and turn around when your water is like at half.”
Officials say on April 9th, a hiker died on the Arizona Hot Springs Trail.
Already this season, National Park Service rangers have conducted multiple heat-related rescues at both Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Springs Trails.
Rangers add many hikers were not prepared for the extreme conditions.
That’s something Sergeant Brent Garcia with Metro Police wants to hammer home before people go out and explore.
“We want to make sure that they’re equipped, and they’re enjoying the outdoors safely and responsibly,” Sergeant Garcia said.
Sergeant Garcia says simple things can make a big difference on the trails.
For instance, he hears too often that people run out of water, and how they’re out there in sandals instead of hiking boots. He says these tips can save your life.
“Make sure that you’ve looked at the weather. Make sure that you’ve let someone know where you’re going,” Garcia said. “Plan your route so that if you don’t come back when you’re supposed to, people know where to look for you and what time to start looking.”
Because of the high heat, Gold Strike and Arizona Hot Springs Trails are closed until at least April 13th. Visitors are asked to plan ahead and check the trails for access.
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