HomeMy WebLinkAboutNR060321KFDDEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
News Release
For Immediate Release: June 3, 2021
COUNTY OF KAUA‘I
KAUA‘I FIRE DEPARTMENT
STEVEN R. GOBLE, CHIEF
(808) 241-4980
First responders conduct multiple air rescues on Wednesday
First responders conducted air rescues in the Kalalau area and Kōke‘e on Wednesday.
“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 of changes in weather conditions.”
Firefighters were notified of the first report of two hikers in distress in the vicinity of the Kalalau
area on Wednesday at approximately 7:20 a.m.
Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 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 Engine 1 and
American Medical Response. After receiving medical assessments by AMR personnel, the hikers refused
medical treatment.
The scene was cleared at 10 a.m.
At approximately 10:40 a.m., while conducting trail maintenance, crews with the 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 Kōke‘e.
Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 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 Kōke‘e.
Responding medics with American Medical Response provided advanced life support and later released
the hiker who sought medical care via private vehicle.
The scene was cleared at approximately 1:15 p.m.
At approximately 2 p.m., first responders were notified of a hiker with a possible head injury in
the Kalalau area.
Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 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 American
Medical Response provided advanced life support and continued efforts on the hiker while in transport
to Wilcox Hospital.
The scene was cleared at 3:45 p.m.
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