US heat forces airlift and overnight rescue ops for Adirondack hiker

New York Forest Rangers responded to a string of emergencies across the Adirondack backcountry in June. Most of these rescues were cases of dehydrated hikers during the hot weather, Adirondacks Explorer reported.The rescues took place in Essex, Hamilton and Washington counties between June 8 and June 13. Rangers worked with emergency medical teams, the New York State Police Aviation Unit and local fire departments to reach people in remote areas where access was difficult.The incidents highlight the importance of preparing before heading into the backcountry. Rangers have reminded hikers to carry enough water, pack food with high protein and calories, and follow recommended hiking safety practices.Dehydrated hiker on Gray PeakOne of the most serious incidents happened on June 13 in the Town of Keene, Essex County. At 5.23 pm, Ray Brook, an emergency dispatch centre,received a report about a dehydrated hiker on the Feldspar Brook Trail on Gray Peak.