LIHU‘E — First responders conducted air rescues in the Kalalau and Koke‘e areas Wednesday.
Firefighters were notified of the first report of two hikers in distress in the vicinity of Kalalau at approximately 7:20 a.m.
Kaua‘i Fire Department rescue specialists aboard the county emergency-response helicopter arrived at Kalalau Beach at 9:30 a.m. and found two hikers, one with a possible back injury. The party was transported to Princeville Airport and was met by firefighters and American Medical Response personnel. After receiving medical assessments by AMR personnel, the hikers refused medical treatment.
At approximately 10:40 a.m., while conducting trail maintenance, crews with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife notified first responders of a hiker with a possible knee injury on the Alaka‘i Swamp Trail in Koke‘e.
Rescue specialists aboard the helicopter spotted the hiker on the trail at approximately 12:10 p.m. First responders utilized a short-haul, secured the hiker, and flew him to a landing zone in Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow in Koke‘e. Responding medics with AMR provided advanced life support and later released the hiker, who sought medical care via private vehicle.
At approximately 2 p.m., first responders were notified of a hiker with a possible head injury in the Kalalau area.
Again, KFD rescue specialists aboard the helicopter arrived at Kalalau Beach at 3 p.m. and found a hiker with possible injuries after being struck by a wave and landing on her head on the sand. First responders applied a C-collar on the hiker, secured her on Air 1, and flew her to Princeville Airport. Responding medics with AMR provided advanced life support and continued efforts on the hiker while in transport to Wilcox Medical Center.
“Air-rescue missions serve as a reminder of the risks that these situations can place upon our residents, visitors and first responders,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Deputy Chief Michael Gibson.
“When planning outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, please let others know of your intended destination and return time, remain on marked trails, and stay alert to changes in weather conditions.”
