Tag: malibu search and rescue team

Vehicle Drives Off Mountain Road, Ignites Brush Fire

December 27, 2024 ·

Photo Credit: Micah Mckerlich

MALIBU—On December 26, at 1:11 a.m., 911 operators received a call of a brush fire. Malibu Search and Rescue (MSAR) reported that a vehicle flew off the road and over the side of a mountain igniting a brush fire near Mulholland Drive and Stunt Road in Calabasas. Reports indicate that street car racing may be to blame for the incident.

Firefighters arrived at the scene to a quarter-acre brushfire moving upward. Firemen on land were able to contain the fire within an acre until Los Angeles County Fire Department Air Ops dropped water from above. Together, they extinguished the flames.

Reports indicate that a California Highway Patrol (CHP) officer heard a man shouting for help, close to an hour after first responders arrived at the scene. The MSAR team was able to locate the injured driver who indicated that his car had been pushed off the roadway by two cars that were street racing.

The driver was transported to an area hospital by ambulance. His condition is unknown.
Officers temporarily shut down Stunt Road following the incident.

By Sharon

Fisherman Falls Into Water Near Maestro’s Ocean Club

August 21, 2023 ·

MALIBU—A fisherman fell onto the rocks below Mastro’s Ocean Club at Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga on Sunday, August 20. A winch rescue by Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station, Los Angeles County Fire Department Los Angeles County Fire Department, Lifeguard Division and McCormick Ambulance EMT’s saved his life and the victim was transported to a trauma center.

The Malibu Search and Rescue Team, LA County Life Guards, LASD, and McCormick Ambulance responded at 5:30 p.m. to a reported male 50s over the side into the rocks below the establishment. The victim had been fishing and fell into the rocks below approximately 30 feet. He suffered a head injury and was in critical condition when rescuers evacuated him using a rescue winch and patient basket.

The combined teamwork during torrential rains and wind of #Hilary made the conditions particularly dangerous for rescuers.

The Malibu Search and Rescue Team posted on their Facebook page Sunday the following statement:

“Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best. Words to LIVE by. Do not hike or seek out the trails until all clear from the impending storm.  Do not try to drive through rushing water. Turn around, don’t drown. Please stay indoors Sunday/Monday.  Watch your local new sources for updates.  #LASD search and rescue resources are on alert. Make sure to have your gas tank or EV batteries full, have food, water, medicines on hand in case of a loss of power or access.”

By Trevor

Hikers Warned Of High Heat In Santa Monica Mountains

July 17, 2023 ·

MALIBU—As temperatures are expected to reach triple digits in California this week, local agencies warn hikers of significant heat in coastal valleys and the Santa Monica Mountains through Monday, July 17. 

Malibu Search and Rescue urges the public to avoid hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains unless it’s in the very early hours of the morning. Peak heat is expected to reach from 90 to 105 degrees in coastal valleys and the Santa Monica Mountains.

“We strongly urge you to avoid hiking during daytime (excessive heat) or evening (heat and darkness) hours,” Malibu Search and Rescue said in a Tweet.

Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, and weakness. If a person is exhibiting these symptoms, they should be moved to a cooler area, their clothing should be loosened, and they should sip cool water. If symptoms don’t improve, medical help should be sought out to prevent heat stroke. 

Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, dizziness, and unconsciousness. In the event someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. 

Malibu Search and Rescue also warns hikers of the detrimental effects high levels of heat can have on pets.

“Dehydration happens very quickly. DO NOT HIKE AT ALL WITH DOGS IN THIS WEATHER,” the agency said in a Tweet. “Leave your 4-legged buddy at home so they will be there to greet you when you return.”

LA Animal Services reminds the public about hot weather pet safety:

  1. Never leave your pet in a hot car.
  2. Give pets plenty of fresh water.
  3. Don’t leave pets outdoors for a long time.
  4. Avoid hot surfaces.

Signs of overheating in pets can be displays of panting, vomiting, warm and dry skin, or collapsing. 

By Paige Strickland