Kaua‘i Fire Department rescues hiker from Hanakapi‘ai Trail

Kaua‘i Fire Department rescued a 57-year-old Virginia Beach, Va., woman Oct. 18 from Hanakapi‘ai Trail in Hā‘ena.

Personnel from Hanalei Fire Station and Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 were dispatched shortly after 2:25 p.m. to a report of a distressed hiker along the trail.

Crews located the hiker upon their arrival. She was experiencing apparent weakness, exhaustion and nausea.

The visitor was assessed at the 1.5-mile landing zone and transported by Air 1 to Princeville Airport, where she was transferred into the care of awaiting American Medical Response personnel for advanced treatment.

The scene was cleared by about 3:40 p.m.

Kaua‘i Fire Department reminds the public to plan ahead when hiking Hanakapi‘ai and Kalalau trails. Conditions can be challenging because of steep terrain, heat and limited access to drinking water.

Hikers are encouraged to stay hydrated, know their limits and turn back before fatigue sets in.