Police and search and rescue volunteers are advising visitors to Cucamonga Canyon and the Sapphire Falls area northwest of Loma Linda and Redlands to exercise care and caution on outings this summer.
Rancho Cucamonga police are planning extra enforcement days at the falls area during the summer season, according the San Bernardino County sheriff's department.
"(E)nforcement will focus on issues such as safety issues, trespassing, illegal parking and other general violations," deputies said in a statement. "Most of the property surrounding the trails is private and should be avoided to prevent being issued a citation."
During the Memorial Day weekend, May 25 to May 27, deputies issued 83 citations, nine written warnings and made one arrest.
Safety is a primary concern in Cucamonga Canyon, deputies said. Since January 2013, there have been at least three rescues in the canyon area near the falls and one fatality, deputies said.
To avoid dangerous situations such as getting lost or heat exhaustion, deputies offered the following tips:
• Choose an appropriate destination for your or your group's experience.
• Check the weather and plan accordingly.
• Create and share a trip plan and leave with a responsible person or in your car on the dashboard.
• Pack the TEN ESSENTIALS
o Navigation – map and compass
o Sun protection – sunscreen, sunglasses, hats
o Insulation – extra clothing
o Illumination – headlamp or flashlight, extra batteries
o First-aid supplies – backcountry first-aid kit
o Fire – matches and fire starter
o Multi purpose tool and duct tape
o Nutrition – extra food
o Hydration – extra water
o Emergency shelter – space blanket, tarp or large garbage bag
For more info on hiking and trail safety, visit the West Valley Search and Rescue website, www.westvalleysar.org.
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