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Hiking and Mountain Trails

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There is no other agency in the United States that goes on as many mountain rescues as the Phoenix Fire Department. Piestewa Peak has over 100,000 visitors alone every year. Besides Piestewa Peak, there also are Camelback, North, Papago, South and Lookout mountains. More mountain rescues are being done than ever before. We've already had 28 mountain rescues in 2006. On the average, two or three deaths are caused every year because people were not wise as they climbed mountain trails. When you visit our mountain parks, remember these seven basic rules.

• If you have any doubt at all as to whether you should climb a trail or mountain, DON'T. The climb up can be difficult but the climb down is always more difficult.

• Be sure to wear proper footwear. This would include hiking boots or high top sneakers; something with plenty of ankle support. Twisted ankles are the most common injury on mountain trails.

• During the summer, the sun is a major factor. Be sure to wear something that provides protection from the sun - cool, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves. Wear a hat or sun visor and be sure to have plenty of water with you.

• Stay on the trail. This is where most people get in trouble. First, the trail is the safest place to be. Second, the mountain parks are protected areas. When a hiker leaves the trail, he or she is defacing the area and there are laws against this.

• Remember that the parks are closed from dusk to dawn. It is against the law to be in them during this time. When someone finds themselves in trouble on a mountain trail in the dark, rescuers put themselves at risk to help them. It is a high risk operation to find someone in the mountains at night, fly a helicopter near a mountain or rappel at night. Please be smart about what you're doing.

• Don't play at rappeling if you don't know what you're doing. Take lessons and do it the right way. Know your limitations.

• Make sure somebody knows where you are going and when you are scheduled to return.

For more information from the Phoenix Parks Department: Click HERE