SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — With summer hikes ahead, local fire crews want you to be prepared so you can enjoy nature and get home safely.
Early Sunday morning, firefighters and search and rescue crews rescued four teens who were stranded on a cliff near Stevens Creek Trailhead in the Dishman Hills Conservation Area.
The teens had climbed up the rocks in dry weather, but rain rolled in, making it too slick to get down on their own.
Spokane County Fire District 8 responded to the scene along with Spokane Valley Fire, Spokane Fire Department and Search and Rescue.
All four teens made it home safely, but Chief Lonnie Rash of SCFD8 said it took ‘several hours’ to rescue them from the rocks.
He said it is crucial to watch the weather forecast before heading out on a hike.
“People need to be prepared for what those changing weather conditions are, and they need to bring warm clothes, because they may be out all night. It took us several hours to extricate [the teens] off the rock to make sure that they’re out and they’re staying warm, as well as having good communication,” Rash said.
Nic Laffosse is an avid climber and said he always checks the weather before he heads out for a climb.
“Check the weather. Make sure the weather looks good – before, during and after your climb. And make sure it’s good a few hours after your climb in case you get stuck up there and need a little more time to get down safely,” he said.
Fire Chief Rash also said you should never hike alone, wear layers and shoes with a strong grip and bring a fully charged phone.
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