Trail rescues, one fatal, keep first responders busy

Emergency crews responded to calls of help from seven hikers on Monday, reported Cal Fire Capt. Robert Ramirez with the Ramona Fire Department — three from the Cedar Creek side and four from the Three Sisters side of popular waterfalls in the Cleveland National Forest.

None required transport to the hospital, just water and first aid, said Ramirez.

Last Tuesday, however, Andrew Moreno, 24, of San Ysidro died while hiking along the Three Sisters trail, officials reported.

Ramona Fire Department responded to a report of a hiker down on the Three Sisters trail at 5:48 p.m. Paramedics and deputies arrived on rescue helicopters, located the group of about three hikers about halfway down Eagle Peak Road, and began first aid on the victim about 6 p.m., sheriff’s Sgt. Carlos Medina said.

Moreno was then flown to Ramona Fire Station 81 in San Diego Country Estates for further medical treatment, but he died before he could be taken to a hospital, Moreno reported.

It is unknown if the victim had a pre-existing condition. The sheriff’s department, U.S. Forest Service and county medical examiner will conduct an investigation, said Medina.

The day after Moreno’s death, the sheriff’s department issued a news release cautioning hikers, particularly in the heat, about Cedar Creek Falls. From Ramona, permits have been required since the spring of 2013, and alcohol and cliff jumping are prohibited.

“The trail to Cedar Creek Falls is a challenging 5-1/2 mile hike with no shade from the sun. It is not for beginners,” the release said. “The return trip is mostly uphill. You will need at least a gallon of water to stay hydrated. Dress appropriately for the hike and know your limits.”

The department advises leaving animals at home, saying, “This trail is not easy on the paws because it’s littered with sharp rocks and the surface gets very hot.”

While permits are not required to access the falls via Three Sisters user-created trails from Julian, Cleveland National Forest’s Palomar Ranger District is considering creating a managed forest trail and in March asked for public comments. More information on the progress of the district’s efforts is at www.fs.usda.gov/project?project=46285.

Included in the Sheriff’s Department release were safety tips:

•Never go hiking alone.

•Know your limitations. Choose trails that match your level of physical fitness and areas where you are not going to get lost.

•Bring ample food, water, sunscreen, a flashlight, a map, a GPS device, a first aid kit, a multipurpose tool or knife, and a whistle.

•Cellphone signals may be limited, but it’s still good to have a fully charged phone in case you need to call for help.

•Wear proper clothing: boots, sunglasses, hat, gloves, helmet, etc.