The Sheriff's Department is partnering with CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service for a public safety video about hiking in the East County.
Despite recent record hot temperatures in the county's mountain and desert areas, people continue to put their lives in danger by hiking Cedar Creek Falls and Three Sisters Falls.
As of June 15th, Sheriff's ASTREA has responded to 51 rescue calls to these hiking trails. In most cases, the hikers did not bring sufficient water and underestimated the rugged terrain.
For more information on Cedar Creek Falls and Three Sisters Falls, you can visit the following websites with valuable information from the U.S. Forest Service, which manages these federal lands:
• Cedar Creek Falls: https://goo.gl/B5b4ka
• Three Sisters Falls: https://goo.gl/u4usfo
Hiking Safety Tips:
• Buddy up – Walk or exercise with a partner. It's fun and it's safer. If something happens along the way, you'll have someone at your side to help.
• Phone home – Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Your cell phone could provide a necessary connection to emergency assistance.
• Drink up – stay hydrated before, during and after exercise. You'll need at least a gallon of water per person during a hike. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Dress for the heat – wear lightweight, light-colored and breathable clothing. Bring a hat and sunglasses. Wear sunscreen.
• Take regular breaks – find some shade or a cool place to stop.
• Leave your dog at home – the trails at Cedar Creek Falls and Three Sisters Falls are not easy on the paws because they are littered with rocks and the surface gets very hot.
• Head inside – if the heat seems overwhelming, don't sweat it.
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