CHP helicopter rescues hurt, stranded hiker near American River in El Dorado County

A hiker was rescued via helicopter Sunday after falling off a trail near the north fork of the American River in El Dorado County.

California State Parks and El Dorado County Fire personnel found the hiker but couldn't safely retrieve him or her, according to a Facebook post by California Highway Patrol — Valley Air Operations. The agencies called CHP and requested a helicopter, which a pilot landed on a small sandbar just off the river.

The hiker was treated for moderate injuries at a nearby hospital.

As weather warms and more hikers take to the trails, CHP is recommending people follow these tips:

• Know the name of the trails/areas you are in
  
  
• Have a way to communicate when you need help
  
  
• Have bright-colored items with you to signal rescue crews
  
  
• Tell friends/family where you are going and when you expect to be back

Benjy Egel: (916) 321-1052, @BenjyEgel

This story was originally published April 23, 2018 at 9:33 AM with the headline "CHP helicopter rescues hurt, stranded hiker near American River in El Dorado County."