HFD, EMS issue warning to O‘ahu hikers following storm

HONOLULU — The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are warning the public that risking your own safety while hiking during severe weather also puts first responders at risk.

Sunday night, following a hurricane that impacted the state, a group of hikers chose to venture out despite dangerous conditions at the Makaua Hidden Garden Trail in Ka’a’awa. A 32-year-old woman was attempting to cross a stream when she slipped and injured her ankle. In the dark and unable to walk out, she and her friends called 911. HFD and EMS responded to the scene.

Two HFD units composed of eight personnel entered the trail on foot to gain access to the injured hiker. Due to difficult terrain, dense vegetation, and poor trail conditions from several inches of rain since Friday night, two additional HFD units were needed to hike up the trail with chainsaws to clear a safe path for the injured hiker and rescuers. HFD air assets were grounded due to high winds.

For nearly three hours, four HFD units comprised of 17 personnel and three EMS units with five paramedics and Emergency Medical Tehcnicians (EMTs) remained on scene due to the extensive and difficult extrication of the injured hiker and her two companions. Once patient contact was made, EMS evaluated the woman and treated her with an ice pack. She ultimately said she would seek medical care on her own and declined EMS transport to an emergency room.

Swollen streams and muddy trail conditions are dangerous days after heavy rains have passed. Avoid hiking unless you are certain of the trail conditions and turn around if you encounter a difficult situation.

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