PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Extreme heat is bringing trail closures to Phoenix, but fire responders say some hikers are not following the rules, putting rescuers at risk when emergency calls come in.
Under the Phoenix Trail Heat Safety Program, restrictions and closures take effect during extreme heat.
Certain popular hiking trails, including Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak and parts of South Mountain, are closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during extreme heat warnings to protect hikers and first responders.
Mountain rescues increase
Phoenix Fire has responded to almost 80 mountain rescues so far this year, according to department leaders.
Department leaders said that is a 50% increase from this time last year. Fire officials expect the number to keep increasing as summer continues, including calls involving people who hike when a trail is closed and then call 911.
Right now, violating closure signs can result in fines or community service.
Some Phoenix Fire officials said it is frustrating when people ignore “Closed Trail” signs, but emphasized that rescuers will respond to every call.
Parks board meeting scheduled
Arizona’s Family reached out to the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board to ask whether there have been talks about creating stricter policies to hold hikers accountable.
The board said it is meeting this week, but that topic is not on the agenda.
Arizona’s Family also requested an interview with members of the board to ask when the last citation was issued and to discuss the issue. The board has not responded.
The next Parks and Recreation Board meeting is Thursday night.
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