JULIAN (KGTV) - Rescue crews are warning hikers after two people died on Three Sisters Falls Trail, just as the temperature is heating up for summer.
For the past seven years, Deputy Sheriff Ken Weber says he's seen too many hikers die on this trail. He joined the force to help others. He has a history of service, enlisting in the Army and Navy for a total of 20 years.
He says the rescues drain money and limited resources. If they can't save a hiker, their spirits sink as well, "It's just sad, just a young wasted life."
Last week, the challenging hike claimed another victim. Twenty year old Nathalie Reed was hiking with a friend when she fell an didn't get back up.
"I'm old enough to be her dad and thinking about her going out there unprepared like that, it just breaks my heart," Weber said.
She was a Navy wife.
Weber has two young boys of his own and wants everyone to be cautious when they head out to the trail.
"Think about what you're going to do, you know, go early, go when it's cooler, bring plenty of water and get out before it gets hot," he said you should dress properly for the hike, start hydrating the day before and bring enough water.
That could mean about two gallons.
Cal Fire Public Information Officer Issac Sanchez says, "be realistic with yourself as to whether you will be able to accomplish the hike."
Weber says this particular hike is so difficult because it's around 2 miles downhill, people then hang out by the water, and when they head back hours later, they're out of water, energy and food.
Signs you need to take a break according to Sanchez, "your breathing becomes more labored, you start to begin to feel thirsty."
If you start feeling dizzy or nauseous, get help, "when you stop sweating and that's when we move into real environmental emergencies," Sanchez said.
Weber says stop and rest in the shade before it becomes an emergency. It takes time to alert help, and for them to arrive at the hiker's location.
"We want everybody to have a good time... but we want you to go home safe too," Weber said.
