SEDONA AZ (May 8, 2013) – Shortly after 1:00 in the afternoon on Saturday, May 4, 2013, Sedona Fire District (SFD) crews responded to a reported injured hiker on the Wilson Mountain Trail. Emergency crews responded from SFD Fire Station #5 in Oak Creek Canyon and SFD Fire Station #4 in uptown Sedona to the Wilson Mountain Trailhead at Midgley Bridge.

Once at the trailhead, SFD Battalion Chief Ed Mezulis worked with the Sedona Regional Communication Center to established cell phone contact and pinpoint the location of the hiker. Two hours later, SFD crews reached the injured hiker and due to the remote location requested Arizona Department of Public Safety Air Rescue to assist with the extrication.

SFD crews “short hauled” the hiker, now accompanied by Firefighter Paramedic Johnny Sedillo, to an established landing zone on Arizona State Highway 89A. The hiker was then transported by ground ambulance to the Sedona Emergency Center.

Short haul is an emergency rescue tool that quickly moves an individual out of a dangerous situation or remote area and places them in a safe location. Short haul involves a rescuer being lowered on a rope from a hovering helicopter to the victim below. After the rescuer rigs a harness to the patient, or, if injuries warrant, places the victim in a Stokes litter basket, the helicopter will lift both to safety.

SFD has responded to fifteen hiking related rescues since March 1, 2013:  These types of incidents are very labor intensive and time consuming. SFD committed twelve firefighters for over six hours during the course of this May 4 incident. In many cases, these types of search and rescue incidents involve multiple fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies.

Here are a few tips to make your hike a safe and fun trip:

• Always wear proper foot wear and sunscreen.
• Bring food, water, and appropriate clothing (layer up!).
• Carry a fully charged cell phone.
• Let someone know where you are going, your expected return time, and your cell phone number.
• Never hike alone.
  

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