Hikers Saved After Smart Fire Trick Prevents Hypothermia

When two hikers fell into an icy stream near Switzer Falls on Saturday night, they did everything right to stay alive.

The pair tumbled into Bear Canyon's freezing water around 7 p.m., getting completely soaked as darkness closed in around them. Unable to escape on their own, they activated a satellite SOS device to call for help.

But they didn't just sit and wait. The hikers immediately started a fire and changed into dry socks and clothing they'd packed in their gear. Those simple actions kept hypothermia at bay in the cold Angeles National Forest night.

The Montrose Search and Rescue Team arrived to find both hikers safe, thanks to their preparation. Rescuers praised them for carrying the exact supplies that made the difference between a routine rescue and a medical emergency.

"Be prepared; the right gear can make all the difference," the rescue team shared on social media. The satellite SOS device allowed them to pinpoint the hikers' exact location in the dark canyon, while the fire helped them stay warm and visible.

Switzer Falls, located about five miles north of La Cañada Flintridge, draws countless hikers each year to its scenic trails. Search and rescue teams respond to the area multiple times annually, making it a familiar spot for emergency crews.

Why This Inspires

This rescue shows how a little preparation transforms emergencies into manageable situations. The hikers carried dry clothes, knew how to start a fire, and brought a communication device that worked without cell service.

Their smart choices gave rescuers time to reach them safely and turned what could have been a desperate situation into a textbook example of outdoor safety. Every hiker who hears this story might pack an extra pair of dry socks or invest in an SOS device.

Both hikers walked away unharmed, ready to share their story and hopefully inspire others to prepare for the unexpected.