A tourist from Belgium has been hospitalized in Las Vegas after suffering third-degree burns to his feet while walking on sand dunes in Death Valley, officials said.
The 42-year-old man was wearing flip flops when officials from the National Park Service said that they either broke or he lost them in the sand last Saturday at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley, according to a statement released on Tuesday.
Air temperatures were 123 degrees at the time, but park officials say that the sand temperatures would have been much hotter.
“The man’s family called for help and recruited other park visitors who carried the man to the parking lot,” according to the NPS statement. “Park rangers determined the man needed to be transported to a hospital quickly due to his burns and pain level.”
The National Park Service ambulance and Mercy Air’s air ambulance at the landing zone at 3,000 feet just east of Death Valley National Park’s CA-190 east entrance.
National Park Service
Mercy Air’s helicopter was not able to safely land in Death Valley due to extreme temperatures which can reduce rotor lift so park rangers initially transported the victim by ambulance to a landing zone at higher elevation, which was 109 degrees. From there, the Belgian tourist was taken by Mercy Air to the University Medical Center in Las Vegas where he is being treated for his injuries.
“Park rangers recommend that summer travelers to Death Valley National Park stay within a 10 minute walk of an air conditioned vehicle, not hike after 10 a.m., drink plenty of water, eat salty snacks and wear a hat and sunscreen,” said the National Park Service following the incident.
Death Valley is known for its extreme temperatures and harsh conditions, making it a challenging environment for even the most experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Unfortunately, one tourist recently learned this the hard way when they sustained severe burns to their feet after losing their flip-flops while exploring the park.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions when visiting remote and unforgiving environments like Death Valley. The tourist, whose identity has not been released, reportedly lost their flip-flops while hiking in the park and was forced to walk barefoot on the scorching hot ground.
With temperatures in Death Valley regularly exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the ground can reach temperatures of up to 200 degrees, hot enough to cause serious burns within seconds. In this case, the tourist suffered second-degree burns to their feet, requiring immediate medical attention and treatment.
This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of wearing appropriate footwear when exploring Death Valley or any other desert environment. Flip-flops are not suitable for hiking in rugged terrain or extreme temperatures, as they offer little protection from sharp rocks, hot surfaces, and other hazards.
Visitors to Death Valley should always wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with thick soles to protect their feet from the intense heat and rough terrain. Additionally, it is essential to carry an ample supply of water, sunscreen, and a hat to stay hydrated and protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
In the event of an emergency like this one, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and follow proper first aid protocols for burns. Cooling the affected area with water, covering it with a clean bandage, and seeking professional medical care are essential steps in treating severe burns.
While Death Valley offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences for adventurous travelers, it is essential to respect its extreme conditions and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. By being prepared, wearing appropriate footwear, and staying hydrated, visitors can avoid potentially dangerous situations like the one experienced by this unfortunate tourist.
