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Experts warn about being outdoors in extreme heat after Colorado Springs bicyclist dies

Experts warn about being outdoors in extreme heat after Colorado Springs bicyclist dies

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., (KRDO) -- Colorado in June is a beautiful time to explore the outdoors, but during high-temperature days, experts advise staying away from strenuous hikes and activities.

Over the weekend, a 52-year-old Colorado Springs mountain biker lost his life after running out of water on a trail in Mesa County. Saturday at 6:45 p.m., the Mesa County Sheriff's Office was notified of a person suffering from a heat-related illness along the Palisade Plunge trail.

That man wasn't the only one who had a close call along the trail that day. The three other riders who found him and called 911 also ran out of water. The sheriff's office says they started with a gallon of water each and ran out about 10 miles before the end of the trail. They had to be rescued and treated for dehydration.

Susan Davies, executive director of the Trails and Open Space Coalition emphasizes having enough water when out in the heat is important.

"Whatever you think is enough water bring just a little extra because you are going to need it," said Davies.

Officials say they strongly discourage strenuous activities during extreme heat and limit any outdoor activities to the early morning hours. They say being outdoors with extreme heat can be an extreme health hazard.

"In these conditions, people can really suffer and you can have problems with heat exhaustion even sunstroke, really dangerous things," said Davies.

She says preparation is key when exploring the outdoors during scorching temperatures. In addition to water, people are told to wear light clothes, hats, and sunblock.

"I would urge people to go early in the day, late in the day when the heat isn't a factor," added Davies.

Another suggestion local officials have is to avoid hard hikes, like the Manitou Incline.

"People I think assume that there is going to be help-and yes there is help and especially in an emergency situation but is nobody to bring you water at the top of the incline, you really have to be self-reliant," said Davies.

Beyond going outdoors, people are also reminded to not leave any children or pets unattended in vehicles.

The Colorado Springs Fire department says the most common call in the summer are people getting locked out of their cars while having someone inside the vehicle.

"Even if it is not your vehicle and you see a pet or young child if you see somebody in those vehicles go by there and see if someone is with them and if not, call 9-1-1," said Captain Mike Smaldino with the Colorado Springs Fire Department.

In 2021, the Colorado Springs Fire Department responded to 63 lock-ins. So far this year, they've responded to 19.

With high temperatures expected to continue, make sure you're hydrated before you head outside!

For more information on the warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, click here.

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