Let’s not scare hikers away from seeking help

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OPINION — Please leave well enough alone when addressing or considering a "stupid hiker law.” Don't do it.

If a hiker finds themself wondering if they should reach out for help, I would want a monetary consideration to be the last thing on their mind. Get to safety first.

Keep allocating adequate funding to our first responders for equipment, training and compensation to keep them in the best possible shape both physically and financially to respond to calls for help. Encourage the media and involved agencies to maintain and expand their public service announcements on the possible dangers awaiting when venturing out hiking.

I volunteer at a local trailhead offering advice to visitors on how to have the best experience while they're out. This includes not only letting them know what is needed to hike safely in the desert but also that help, if needed, is a phone call away, without cost. Don't let dollars cloud their thinking.

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