In a rescue on Sunday, June 1st, Grand Canyon National Park medical personnel performed a helicopter short-haul for a hiker on the Tonto Trail. The hiker was believed to have been hindered by heat and poor physical condition.
Traditional rescue methods aren’t always possible during emergencies deep in the Grand Canyon backcountry. In these cases, search and rescue teams might use helicopter short-haul to reach and evacuate the sick or injured individuals. Short-haul suspends a rescuer and sometimes a patient beneath a helicopter on a fixed line, requiring extensive training and coordination.
Last week, Grand Canyon National Park saw 13 helicopter rescues in just 7 days. As temperatures continue to rise in and around the inner canyon, emergency calls are likely to be more common. Ensure that you’re prepared for the weather conditions before hiking in the canyon.
Plan ahead before venturing into the canyon and make sure you understand your limits and know your skill level. Read more about safety in Grand Canyon National Park below.
Grand Canyon National Park Safety:
Elevation
Elevations are 7,000 feet (2,135 m) on the South Rim and 8,000 feet (2,438 m) on the North Rim. Arizona’s dry climate may affect you differently than your home environment. To reduce risk of sunburn, dehydration, naseua, shortness of breath, and exhaustion:
- Use sunblock and reapply throughout the day
- Stay hydrated by drinking water or electrolyte drinks
- Take your time while visiting overlooks and hiking
- During the summer, rest often in the shade
View Grand Canyon Safely
Grand Canyon National Park rangers are encouraging visitors to have a safe and memorable vacation to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A trip to Grand Canyon can be both fun and safe by keeping these few tips in mind.
- Stay on designated trails and walkways and always keep a safe distance of at least six feet (2 m) from the edge.
- In areas where there is a railing or fence, do not climb over the barrier.
- Keep an eye on all of the people in your group, especially small children. Make sure that your travel companions have both feet firmly planted on pavement or developed trails at all times.
- Know where the edge is. Watch foot placement and look for trip hazards.
- Do not run, jump, or perform physical stunts when near the rim.
- Do not back up without first looking where you are going
Never Throw Anything Over the Edge
- Never throw rocks, coins, trash, or anything else over the edge.
- Objects tossed over the edge or dislodged by walking off trail can injure hikers and wildlife below, or start landslides.
