(Washington Insider Magazine)- Kevin Cox, a recently named missing hiker, was recently found dead in Canyonlands National Park. As officials search for answers, a larger conversation has started around heat illness awareness and its dangers in the wake of the Canyonlands Death.
Risks Continue To Grow As More Turn To Nature During Pandemic Lockdowns
Every summer, the Canyonlands National Parks is inundated with emergency stress calls from hikers. As a result, hundreds of search and rescue teams are deployed throughout the parks each year.
Officials urge people to take proper precautions; such as hiking with a companion, telling others about your hiking plans and estimated return time, and relying on other alternative communication devices during park visits.
Cell service is never guaranteed. The Canyonlands is a rugged, remote area where emergency services, such as gas and food, could be as far as 50 miles from the trail. Planning ahead with plenty of water, food and basic medical supplies is a
must.
In the wake of the Canyonland death case, the public has found that relying solely on the National Park Service for assistance could be a life-threatening gamble. In this case, search and rescue teams took several hours to pinpoint whereabouts before finding the stranded hiker, which had already succumbed to the elements.
How to Stay Safe During Remote National Park Hikes
In addition to the dangers of extreme heat, the natural elements within a National Park present their own challenges to visitors daily. Anticipating uncontrolled elements, such as wildlife encounters or weather changes, can make the difference in your personal safety.
Heat Safety For Hikers
This summer’s heatwave is setting records for most of the world. With temperatures
reaching over a hundred degrees in Canyonlands National Park this past week, it is possible the hiker’s death was a result of the extreme temperature.
However, there has been no official cause of death has been announced by San Juan County at the time of publication. National Park officials have continued to warn visitors about the intense heat, as well as the dangers of humidity and unfiltered sunlight.
Recommendations are to plan ahead for extreme heat by hydrating several days prior to your hike, consuming food at regular intervals, and traveling in the early morning or late evening hours–after the heat of the day.
