Sheriff’s Department Urges Hikers to Complete Search and Rescue Plan Before They Trek

In an effort to enhance safety for all hikers in Los Angeles County, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department suggests hikers complete a  Search and Rescue Hiking Plan worksheet as part of their pre-planning for use by rescuers in case hikers go missing.

Two recent hiker fatalities and the continuing search for a third have highlighted just how beneficial proper planning and coordination can be when things go wrong.

In those cases, rescuers spent hundreds of hours searching and in one instance, a search team member was seriously injured.

The worksheet, downloadable from the LASD’s website, could be crucial, regardless of weather conditions, and should be given to a responsible person who will provide the information to Law Enforcement / Search and Rescue if the hikers fail to return as scheduled. 

To download the LASD Search and Rescue Hiking Plan worksheet, go to http://file.lacounty.gov/lasd/cms1_163961.pdf. 

“Regardless of the weather conditions, it’s important that all hiking groups in Los Angeles County fill out an LASD Search and Rescue Hiking Plan worksheet as part of their pre-planning,” a statement on the LASD website says. “The completed worksheet should then be given to a responsible person who will provide this information to Law Enforcement / Search and Rescue, in the event you do not complete your trip as scheduled.” 

The LASD’s Search and Rescue Hiking Plan, along with the dedication and expertise of its deputies and volunteers, aims to ensure the safety of hikers and provide vital support in critical situations. 

LASD Emergency Services Detail (ESD) deputies are an integral part of this initiative, operating 24/7 and performing tactical operations, as well as serving as certified paramedics and rescue divers. Their responsibilities include coordinating and participating in mountain search and rescue, underwater search and rescue, and swift water rescue operations for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The highly trained deputies staff the Air-5 Rescue Helicopter, the Ocean Rescue Boat, and also work closely with the Special Weapons Teams.

The ESD’s capabilities are further augmented by two Reserve companies. The Medical Company, consisting of doctors and medical specialists, provides essential support during busy weekends and major holidays, working alongside the Air-5 crew. 

Additionally, the Reserve Deputies, dedicated volunteers from the local community, bring their unique skills and experiences to the team. These Reserve Deputies are also EMTs and Mountain Rescue certified, united by the shared motto of “So that others may live.”

For more information, visit https://lasd.org/altadena.