YOSEMITE (KMJ) — A busy 4th of July weekend is predicted at Yosemite National Park, but safety remains a top priority.
“We really want people to stay on the trails, or other developed areas,” says Park Ranger Alan Hageman “There’s a lot of snowmelt going on right now and it’s creating excessive water runoff which is making the park beautiful…but the water is very deceptive, it’s dangerous, and unforgiving.”
Visitors are being asked to arrive early and park wherever they can find a space, as the site is expected to fill up quickly. Officials add that campgrounds on the reservation system are sold out for the weekend, and those considered first-come first-served will fill up early.
With so many people enjoying the park’s natural beauty, there are also fears trying to capture the moment could end in tragedy.
“We have had people that have slipped in trying to get that perfect photo, or trying to pose somebody for a photo in a particular place. They need to exercise all the cautions of anybody else,” warns Hageman.
“The question always to ask yourself is ‘if I fall or wipe out right here, what is the worst thing that could happen to me?’. You only want that to be a ground-level fall and if you’re close to the water that could be a life-threatening experience.”
Advice is to call 911 immediately if someone falls in, and if possible try to throw something to them.
“The one thing we don’t want them to do is go in, because now we have a second rescue effort. It’s pretty common for good Samaritans to get into trouble trying to help another person.”
Hear the story from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
