Injured hiker rescued on Kalalau Trail Monday
LĪHU‘E — Personnel from the Kaua‘i Fire Department rescued a 26-year-old female Virginia visitor from the Kalalau Trail on Monday, August 10, with injuries caused by a fall.
Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 responded to the incident shortly before 11:25 a.m. on Monday.
First responders arrived on scene in the vicinity of Hanakāpī‘ai Falls and discovered the hiker. Rescuers medically assessed the hiker at the scene, provided first aid, and extracted her through the use of stokes ladder to transport her to the Hanakāpī‘ai Falls landing zone. Upon arrival at the landing zone, the hiker was loaded into Air 1, where she was taken to Princeville Airport. Upon landing at the Princeville Airport, the hiker was transferred to American Medical Response for assessment. American Medical Response personnel then transferred the hiker to a local hospital.
The scene was cleared shortly before 1:10 p.m.
Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson reminds hikers to take proper precautions before heading out on the island’s trails, particularly when conditions are wet.
“Many of the rescues we respond to involve slips, trips, and falls, and muddy or wet trail conditions can make the terrain extremely slippery,” said Chief Gibson. “Hikers should be prepared for changing conditions, wear appropriate footwear with good traction, stay within their abilities, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. A little preparation before hitting the trail can go a long way toward keeping you and our first responders safe.”
Hikers are encouraged to check weather and trail conditions before heading out, carry sufficient water and necessary supplies, wear appropriate footwear for the terrain, and let someone know their hiking plans and expected return time. Hikers should also be mindful that conditions can change quickly and adjust their plans accordingly.
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