'Stop hiking in the heat': Cal Fire advises against hiking in extreme temperatures

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Cal Fire is issuing a summer heat warning and asking people to not hike in the heat. This summer, Cal Fire says it has helped in more than 30 helicopter rescues along with the San Diego Sheriff’s Office.

“We are doing hoist rescues, we're dropping rescuers in with our sheriff’s partners and getting these people out of harms way, but all that takes time,” said Captain Tomas Shoots. “When people reach out to us, they’ve usually reached a point where things are desperate. They’re in dire need of help.”

Firefighters have been issuing social media warnings and advising people that some trails are closed in August including Saddleback Trail, Three Sisters and San Diego Mission Gorge Trail due to excessive heat.

“When you notice sweat is dissipating and your skin is starting to get really dry and you’re starting to become a little delirious, your body has shut off that function of being able to cool itself down,” said Cal Fire Paramedic Derrick Tarin. “It’s extremely dangerous and it can be fatal sometimes.”

Firefighters say make sure to stay hydrated, have snacks and hike with someone so you’re not alone.

They also suggest staying off trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during peak hours of heat.

“A lot of times these trails don’t have good cell service, so don’t count on the 911 system to save you and push yourself too far. There will be a time delay that won’t be on your side,” said Captain Shoots.

More coverage on the extreme heat can be found at fox5sandiego.com/weather