SEATTLE — Seattle Mountain Rescue, an all-volunteer, donation-run group of seasoned alpinists, wants hikers to be prepared for fall and winter hiking as darker days approach.
"We do see an uptick in rescues around this time because the weather's changing fast, people are caught off guard, it may start with a beautiful sunny day and then the rain comes," SMR volunteer and recruitment chair Kaeli Beckham said. "People sometimes forget to bring their head lamps and they're surprised by how dark it gets how early."
Seattle Mountain Rescue said people should plan trips ahead of time and set a "turn around time" to beat the darkness. Tell a responsible person who is not hiking where you're going and your plan, and pack the 10 hiking essentials to be safe and prepared:
TEN HIKING ESSENTALS
- Map
- Compass
- Sun protection
- Extra clothing
- Headlamp
- First-Aid kit
- Firestarter
- Knife
- Extra food and water
- Waterproof shelter
Seattle Mountain Rescue is part of the King County Search and Rescue Association and works closely with other times. It never charges for rescues and says if people need help, they should call 9-1-1. They run fully on donations; contributions can be made here.