Risky Hiking on the Rise in Hawaii

Honolulu Fire Department personnel have been called out 59 times to the top rescue location, Diamond Head Crater, during the past year.

  • Mar 13, 2018

Social media are spurring an increase in risky scenic hiking at some locations in Hawaii, according to a March 12 report published by the Honolulu Star Advertiser. Nina Wu's article said social media posts, blogs, and apps are highlighting unsanctioned hikes and making the location of trails available, with GPS coordinates, to all. One result is a lot of Honolulu Fire Department rescues, she reported.

They have been called 59 times to the top rescue location, Diamond Head Crater, during the past year. Her report lists 15 locations where departmental personnel made at least six rescue trips from January 2017 to February 2018.

Wu's article quotes Aaron Lowe, a trails and access specialist with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, who said use of the state trails has risen significantly, as have the number of people, both visitors and local residents, who are going to places that are obviously dangerous. "A typical example occurred Sunday, when Honolulu Fire Department rescue crews extracted two hikers, a male and a female, who were stuck in a steep clearing left of the Haiku Stairs trail. The 911 call came in just before noon," she reported. "Crews flew in via the Air 1 helicopter and extracted the two via a sling and took them to a landing zone at Kaneohe District Park, the department said by email."

The article includes these hiking safety tips:

  • Stay on the trail and stay together. Hike with a partner or a club. Do your research on the trail before you go.
  • File a plan with someone who knows where you're going, who's going with you, and when you're expected back.
  • Check weather conditions and know your own capabilities.
  • Avoid undue risks.
  • Monitor the weather and watch the time.
  • Bring necessary equipment, including a charged cellphone, rain gear, space blanket, flashlight, and 2-3 liters of water.
  • In an emergency, call 911, be visible and audible. Stay calm, stay put, and stay warm, out of the wind and rain.

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • Glove Guard® Clip

    Safety should never be compromised, especially when it comes to proper glove usage. The Glove Guard® clip enhances safety by encouraging employees to keep their gloves with them at all times. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. By ensuring everyone has their gloves readily available, we help promote a culture of safety and efficiency. The Glove Guard® clip is designed to withstand the toughest work environments. Constructed from robust materials made in the USA, it can endure extreme conditions, including harsh weather, and rigorous activities. Read More

  • EMSL Analytical, Inc. - Air Sampling Supplies & Testing Labs

    EMSL Analytical, Inc. operates laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for Asbestos, Mold, Silica, Lead & Metals, Bacteria, Legionella, USP , Combustion By-Products, VOC’s, Radon, PCB’s, Formaldehyde, METH/Fentanyl, Identification of Dust & Unknowns. Sampling Pumps, Cassettes, Media & Supplies available. Reach us at 1-800.220.3675 Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence