On Sunday, August 19, 2012, Cabazon Station deputies responded to the top of the Palm Springs Tram regarding a report of a hiker in need of rescue. The lone hiker, identified as Long Nguyen of Antelope California, became lost after leaving the trail and was in need of assistance. The hiker reported he was uninjured, but needed help to find his way back.

The Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit (RMRU) was immediately mobilized and responded to the scene. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit responded and was able to locate the hiker under an outcropping of rocks, but was unable to safely reach him due to the winds. The hiker was instructed to stay put and his coordinates were provided to RMRU.

RMRU personnel safely reached the hiker and were able to safely escort him back to the Palm Springs Tram. The hiker was not injured and appeared to be in good spirits. The hiker did not require medical treatment.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind hiking enthusiasts to carry proper equipment for any outdoor excursion. Proper preparedness includes a well thought-out travel plan shared with friends and family, as well as familiarity with common hiking equipment, such as G.P.S., maps and compasses. RMRU offers several helpful, lifesaving tips at their website (www.rmru.org).