Ventura County Sheriff – Incident Press Release
On 08/31/19, shortly after 2PM, emergency medical and law enforcement personnel responded to the Rancho Nuevo Trailhead in northern Ventura County reference four deer hunters who called 911 to report they were lost and dehydrated. The Rancho Nuevo Trail is located in the Los Padres National Forest Dick Smith Wilderness.
With temperatures around 96 degrees and limited information about the hunter’s whereabouts, Air Squad 6 responded along with ground units from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Ventura County Fire Department, and American Medical Response. Air Squad 6 located the hunters eight miles from the trailhead. The hunters were medically evaluated and did not want to be transported to the hospital. The hunters were transported by air to awaiting ground resources.
The hunters had insufficient food and water, did not have a map, and did not know their whereabouts.
Many outdoor emergencies are preventable. It is imperative that you are properly prepared before you recreate in the national forest. At a minimum, you should follow these guidelines:
-Know your physical capabilities and those of your group.
-Bring enough food and water to stay hydrated/nourished for the duration of your activity.
-Bring a map with you and be familiar with the area.
-Have a plan. Ensure that someone who is not with the group is aware of your plan and when to report that you are overdue.
By following the above guidelines, you limit your exposure to many preventable outdoor related emergencies. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office cannot emphasize enough the importance of properly planning your outdoor recreation for the safety of all, including our first responders.
Get Citizensjournal.us Headlines free SUBSCRIPTION. Keep us publishing – DONATE
