Coronavirus: Hiker Precautions Amid Limited Search And Rescue

KING COUNTY, WA — The King County Sheriff's Office is reminding hikers to follow certain hiking safety precautions. The request comes amid a spike in calls for search and rescue of lost hikers alongside limited searcher availability.

The ongoing pandemic of the new coronavirus has first responders tied up, and is also affecting the King County Search and Rescue volunteers, a release from the sheriff's office says.

"The Sheriff’s Office and King County Search and Rescue want to remind everyone, if you are hiking be prepared with the 10 essentials and safe practices while outdoors."

"The number of searchers could be greatly diminished and the response time could be longer than normal for rescue if needed," the release says.

The King County Sheriff's Office says hikers should be sure to have these 10 essential items:

• Navigation- map, compass, GPS
• Sun Protection- glasses, sunscreen, hat
• Insulation- extra clothes, avoid cotton
• Illumination- headlamp, flashlight
• First aid supplies- know how to use
• Emergency fire- camp stove, matches
• Repair kit and tools- what can break
• Nutrition- enough and extra food
• Hydration- enough and extra water
• Emergency shelter and Communication- cell phone, whistle