Three children were hospitalized on Friday after a family of 13 were rescued from an Arizona trail amid an excessive heat warning. The news comes just weeks after we reported that a 10-year-old boy died in Arizona after hiking in triple-digit temperatures
The group was reportedly in the Scottsdale area for a family reunion and had set off on the 4.4-mile Gateway Loop Trail for a hike at around 7:30 a.m. However, at 10 a.m. mountain rescue received a callout, according to the Scottsdale Fire Department. A team of 65 firefighters was dispatched to the scene and discovered the family sheltering under a tree in a wash several miles into the route.
According to the news release, a 10-year-old child was treated by paramedics at the scene before being transported by air to a local children’s hospital. A 12-month-old and an 18-month-old off the trail who were displaying symptoms of heat exhaustion were also transported to a local hospital by UTV. An adult male was stretchered out.
Over the last few years, Phoenix officials have been experimenting with closing trails during the day when an excessive heat warning is in place, however local news outlet KNXV reports that Scottsdale officials have chosen education over trail closures.
Staying safe in desert conditions
While the family set out early, which is recommended for hiking in desert conditions during the summer months, the case underscores just how dangerous heat can be for hikers. The SFD issued the following advice for hikers:
- Have the 10 essentials.
- Wear proper footwear such as sturdy hiking boots that are broken in and comfortable.
- Take at least one quart of water (roughly one-liter water bottle or hydration pack). Turn around when half of your water is gone.
- Wear light-colored, loose clothing that covers your skin such as long hiking pants and long-sleeved base layer.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Carry a cell phone (Apple devices equipped with the SOS function will work even when you don't have a signal) and a portable charger. In the event of an emergency, take note of your location and any landmarks so the 911 dispatcher can direct first responders.
- Stay on the trail – you are more likely to be injured or need to be rescued if you stray from the trails.
- Watch where you step – the desert has numerous hazards from prickly plants to rattlesnakes.
- Know the signs of heatstroke.
Learn more in our article on hiking in hot weather.
