As temperatures soar in Phoenix, local fire officials are urging hikers to prioritize safety to prevent dangerous rescues. The Phoenix Fire Department, alongside the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and Arizona Fire & Medical Authority, held a hiker safety briefing at South Mountain Park and Preserve on Thursday. They highlighted the risks associated with hiking in Arizona’s intense summer heat.
Each year, more than 150 hikers are rescued from Phoenix’s desert and mountain preserves, with many incidents linked to heat-related illnesses. While Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak are often in the spotlight for rescues, South Mountain presents unique challenges due to its vast expanse of over 16,000 acres and more than 100 miles of trails. This makes it the largest municipally managed park in the United States.
Officials noted that hikers frequently underestimate the distance, heat, and terrain, leading to numerous rescues that endanger both the hikers and first responders. In response to a series of extreme-heat rescues in 2021, Phoenix implemented additional heat-safety measures. These include a trail closure program that restricts access from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during National Weather Service Extreme Heat Warnings, electronic closure gates, safety signage, message boards, remote trail monitoring cameras, and ice machines at select trailheads.
Despite these efforts initially reducing rescues, emergency calls are on the rise again. During the safety event, technical rescue teams, park rangers, and fire personnel demonstrated rescue equipment and shared key safety tips for hikers. Recommendations include carrying ample water, wearing suitable footwear, using sun protection, planning routes in advance, and knowing when to turn back. Hikers are also encouraged to start early and avoid peak afternoon heat, never underestimating the harsh desert conditions.
Arizona Weather
Arizona’s severe weather is well-documented, with various thunderstorms, floods, and fires occurring across the state. For more on Arizona weather news and emergencies, visit the 12News YouTube channel.
Original reporting: 12News / KPNX (Phoenix) — read the source article.
