Friday, June 28, 2024

Altadena Sheriff’s Station Urges Hikers to File Safety Plans

The Altadena Sheriff’s Station is reminding hikers in Los Angeles County to prioritize safety by completing a Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue Hiking Plan worksheet before embarking on their outdoor adventures. This recommendation comes as part of an effort to enhance emergency preparedness in the region’s wilderness areas.

According to an announcement posted on the Altadena Sheriff’s Station Facebook page, the completed form should be given to a responsible person who can provide the information to law enforcement or search and rescue teams if hikers fail to return as scheduled. The station emphasized that this precaution is crucial for all hiking groups, regardless of weather conditions.

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue Hiking Plan worksheet is available for download on the Los Angeles County website. 

To download the worksheet, visit http://file.lacounty.gov/lasd/cms1_163961.pdf. 

The worksheet would assist emergency responders in locating lost or injured hikers more efficiently.

The Altadena Sheriff’s Station, one of 23 patrol stations of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, is located at 780 East Altadena Drive, Altadena. It serves several areas including Altadena, parts of the Angeles National Forest, and northeast Pasadena. Its jurisdiction covers popular hiking destinations such as Eaton Canyon and Chaney Trail.

Supporting these efforts are the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Sheriff’s Emergency Services Detail (ESD) deputies, who operate around the clock. In addition to their tactical operations, these specially trained personnel are certified paramedics and rescue divers, coordinating mountain, underwater, and swift water rescue operations throughout Los Angeles County.

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department website, the ESD team utilizes advanced resources, including the Air-5 Rescue Helicopter and Ocean Rescue Boat, to conduct search and rescue missions. They also collaborate with Special Weapons Teams during operations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to emergency response.

Augmenting the full-time crew are Reserve Deputies, volunteers from the local community who bring diverse skills to the team. These dedicated individuals are EMT’s and Mountain Rescue certified, embodying the motto “So that others may live.”

The Emergency Services Detail also maintains a Medical Company, consisting of doctors and medical specialists who work with the Air-5 crew on busy weekends and major holidays, further enhancing their emergency response capabilities.