Sheriff’s office finds 2 overdue campers in Petrolia area

Agency offers tips for hikers, campers

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a report on Wednesday of two campers who were overdue returning from a trip to King’s Peak in the Petrolia area, the agency announced in a release Thursday.

The campers, a man and woman in their 20s, were reported missing Wednesday around 11:26 a.m. by a roommate after they failed to come home on Monday as scheduled.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Division was sent out to begin a search-and-rescue effort for the two people.

Deputies found the missing campers’ vehicle parked at the Mattole Beach Trailhead in Petrolia. When deputies searched the beach area, the two campers were found “alive and well,” the sheriff’s office reported in the release.

The sheriff’s office recognizes that nice weather means there will be more outings to local trails and parks. The agency also wants to remind people to use caution when camping or hiking and to “always be prepared.”

The following are tips provided by the sheriff’s office:

• Tell a friend where you are going and when you plan to return. Make sure to let your friend know if you change your plans.

• If planning a day hike, set a turnaround time to make sure you finish hiking before the sun goes down.

• Always carry a flashlight, even on short hikes.

• Bring extra water and high energy foods.

• Bring a small first aid kit.

• Stay on an established trail.

• Dress properly for a hike and prepare for changes in the weather, bring rain gear and warm clothes.

• If you are unfamiliar with the area, bring a map. If on the coast, consider bringing a tide chart.

• Consider bringing a whistle to help emergency responders find your location in a search-and-rescue situation.

• Ensure that your cell phone is charged and consider bringing a small power bank should you need to charge your cell phone.

• If hiking with a partner or a group, never leave someone behind.