Two French Nationals dead after hiking

[goldent]

Source: ALAMOGORDO NEWS

Two French Nationals died while hiking the Alkali Flat Trail in the White Sands National Monument Tuesday afternoon, Otero County Sheriff Benny House said.

House said David Raoul Steiner, 42, Ornella Del Guidice Steiner, 51, both of Bourgogne, Reims, France, which is about 100 miles east of Paris, died while hiking the trail.

He said the couple's 9-year-old son was found alive then transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center and treated for dehydration.

The three individuals were traveling across the United States, visiting national parks and monuments, House said.

Read more: http://www.alamogordonews.com/alamogordo-news/ci_28599612/two-french-nationals-dead-after-hiking

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It appears they were not prepared for the extreme conditions at the White Sands park, and started their hike during peak heat. Even people who believe they are informed and prepared do not realize how difficult it is to hike in sand in the heat and direct sun (personal experience).

[840high]

1. Sad.

[Arugula Latte]

2. The elevation really increases the danger.

It's much easier to get dangerously dehydrated. I remember hiking in National Parks in Utah and signs would say "1 mile to such and such monument." I'd think -- eh, no big deal, just a mile. But with the combo of heat and elevation, a mile seemed much more strenuous than I was used to. The bumperstickers that say "Hydrate or die" are spot on... Very sad for this family.