Chaffee County Search and Rescue – South is reporting their first call for heat exhaustion for the summer 14’er season.
Crews met a 24-year-old female who had summited earlier in the day but had run out of water and was exhibiting signs of heat-related illness. She was hydrated with IV fluids and assisted back to the trailhead.
Though she and two hiking companions had begun their day with a few liters of water, it was not enough for safely completing a summit attempt of a 14’er on a hot day in July. Heat illness and symptoms related to dehydration can quickly set in.
Beyond bringing the ten essentials (navigation, sun protection, insultation, illumination, first-aid, fire, tools, emergency shelter, food, and water), remember to regularly rehydrate, ideally alternating water and a sports drink designed to replenish electrolytes and salts.
