Kaaterskill Falls - Exhausted Hiker

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Wilderness Rescue in Town of Hunter in Greene County: On Aug. 8 at 2:43 p.m., Greene County 911 reached out to Forest Ranger Fox about a hiker at Kaaterskill Falls trail suffering from heat exhaustion. At 5:06 p.m., Ranger Commerford and Assistant Forest Rangers (AFRs) Massa and Zeleznik reached the 62-year-old from New Jersey. The subject was complaining of weakness, dizziness, and exhaustion, and was also a diabetic. Rangers provided electrolytes and food, which enabled the hiker to continue the hike out. At 5:14 p.m., they started walking with the subject and their hiking group when Rangers were met by a Greene County Paramedic and Tannersville Fire Department. At 5:25 p.m., everyone exited the woods and the patient was turned over to Hunter EMS.

DEC encourages hikers to bring plenty of food and water for their hike in case the hike lasts longer than expected. Proper preparation for a hike can reduce bouts of cramping and dehydration. DEC also encourages checking the forecast before an adventure and if it’s too hot, consider hiking a different day.