First responders in Huntsville say they rescue hikers allyear round and have already had to make their fair share this summer. That’swhy it’s important to plan your hiking trips properly.
Huntsville Fire & Rescue District Chief, Levi Harris, said, “Itgets dark on them. They get out there, and they weren’t aware that it was goingto, they thought they had more sunlight, they weren’t aware it was going to getdark as fast as it did.”
You shouldn’t rely on your cell phone for directions. Search andrescuers say to always pack a map. First responders say another common mistakepeople make is not bringing enough water.
“With high heat and high humidity, you can be overcome very quickly,so at the first signs of fatigue and heat stress, you need to take a break,hydrate,” said Harris.
Search and rescuers also recommend wearing the right gear and hikingwith someone else. They say that if you do go out alone, let someone know whereyou plan to hike.
You can also use apps like AllTrails to help plan out and guide you on your trips.
