3 hikers rescued; heat still a danger

Three hikers had to be rescued in separate incidents Sunday as summer temperatures hit dangerous highs, the Phoenix Fire Department said.

The National Weather Service warned residents to limit outdoor activity, drink extra water and protect kids, pets and the elderly while highs are expected to reach 111 Sunday and 112 Monday.

A “dangerous heat risk remains the main concern through tomorrow,” Phoenix officials said in a Sunday tweet.

The hikers on three Phoenix mountains were rescued around the middle of the day, according to Phoenix Fire Department spokesman Danny Gile.

❚ Around 10 a.m., a 29-year-old woman became weak and dizzy while climbing Piestewa Peak. Crews went up the mountain and gave her IV fluids, which enabled her to climb down on her own, officials said.

❚ Close to half an hour later, a 59year-old man became weak and dizzy on South Mountain. He was air lifted to Chandler Regional Medical Center.

❚ Just before 1 p.m., a 29-year-old woman became lost in the Sonoran Preserve near Tower Road trail. She had plenty of water but felt too weak to continue. Crews helped her back onto the trail, where she was able to head down without help, officials said.

Heat kills more people each year than any other weather-related event, according to the National Weather Service. At least 66 deaths last year were associated with heat in Maricopa County.

Hikers should always wear strong shoes, know their route, bring a charged cell phone, go with a partner and pack plenty of water, experts say. In summer, people should aim for early mornings and evenings and turn around once water is halfway gone, officials said.

If hikers feel fatigued, warm, excessively thirsty or have cramping, they should seek shade, drink more water or call for help.

The excessive heat warning is in effect through 8 p.m. today, according to the National Weather Service.