Captain Skyberg
Palm Springs Fire Department
760.507.7841 
ronald.skyberg@palmspringsca.gov

The Palm Springs Fire Department urges residents and visitors to use extreme caution when hiking during the summer months. The department has seen an increase in hiker rescue calls as temperatures continue to rise. Hiking during periods of extreme heat can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. Plan ahead, stay hydrated, and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day.

Stay safe:
• Hike early in the morning and avoid peak afternoon heat
• Carry plenty of water and drink regularly
• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight clothing
• Hike with a partner
• Bring a fully charged phone
• Turn back if conditions become too difficult

Heat-related illnesses can develop rapidly and become life-threatening. Emergency responders routinely assist hikers suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke during summer months.

Symptoms may include: dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, weakness, confusion, or fatigue.
If these occur, stop immediately, seek shade, hydrate, and turn back. If symtpoms persist or worsen after hydrating and resting in the shade call 911.

No hike is worth risking your life.