New warning signs in place after girl’s injury at Helen Hunt Falls

A 12-year-old girl who fell 75 feet on Sunday at Helen Hunt Falls has been released from the hospital, and new signs have been posted at the Falls.

Lily Baker suffered a brain injury and a fractured ankle and foot, but is in stable condition. It could take up to two years for her to fully recover.

Helen Hunt Falls is known as a family-friendly place, drawing visitors of all ages.

“We’ve really enjoyed the trails, and I think there’s a lot of kid-safe trails, but the important part is, if it’s steep on one side, make sure their arms reach away,” said parent, Devin Amin.

Amin and his wife keep a close eye on their children when they hit the trails. Their youngest is just 15 months old, the oldest is 6.

“This one we hiked all the way to the top and we got this beautiful view and we were like, ‘Wow’,” daughter Victoria Amin said.

It’s the same trail where Lily Baker was seriously hurt after falling 75 feet. Her accident serves as an important reminder.

“Getting them close to the edge makes me a little more nervous, so I tend to hold their hands and keep them closer whenever we’re closer to the bigger edges of the mountains,” said mother Ashley Amin.

There are several new signs in place warning visitors of the consequences of not following the rules, telling them to stay off the rocks and away from the waterfall.

“If you’re out in the wilderness area and you’re a parent or have dogs or children, we want you to be extra cautious with those people, plan ahead what areas may be safe for kids,” said Lt. William Miller of the Colorado Springs Fire Department high angle rescue team.

Miller said rescuers have responded to 265 calls for service this year. Hikers are often stranded for hours and are not prepared.

“We want you to think about things like weather, terrain, equipment you might need to take, footwear and attire,” Miller said.