Hikers In The Dangerous Heat
It takes preparation to hike in the desert’s summer heat but Josh Mierly says he doesn’t need much, he says he only takes water and sunblock and feels that since he has lived in the desert for over 11 years, he should be used to it.
But as experienced as one can be, desert temperatures can sneak up on you and the consequences are harsh. Lieutenant Doug Stevens works with the Palm Springs mounted police in the search and rescue unit, and hes says it’s not only a health risk, it also costs money.
“If it’s a mutual aid situation when we’re working with the sheriff or were working with California Highway Patrol, it’s a mutual aid, its still a cost to the county and the state but if we cant get them to come and do the rescue we have to use an independent and that costs us about 15 hundred dollars an hour in flying.
According to the Palm Springs mounted police, there were four hiker deaths due to heat on the tram trail in 2009 which is why they set up emergency boxes throughout the trail to potentially save a life. These boxes have basic survival items like water and a flashlight, so that people who really need it can use them.
But Irma Jimenez, Cathedral City resident, says that she hikes when she has time which can sometimes mean hotter temperatures.
Lieutenant Stevens also says that after the 105 degree mark its impossible to carry enough water to replenish the amount your body will lose so with the summer season just begining, the recommendations are always drink water, wear light clothing and no dark colors, bring a friend and tell someone you’re going. Also take a cell phone.
