We reported earlier about the July 4th heat death of a motorcyclist in Death Valley National Park. Sadly, Death Valley heat has claimed the life of another victim. Whether your RV plans take you to Death Valley or not, the incidents underscore the importance of preparing for heat. It could easily save your life.
Death Valley heat reaches 119
The Death Valley heat fatality happened at Natural Bridge Trailhead on August 1, 2024. Peter Hayes Robino (57) was from the Los Angeles County community of Duarte. Bystanders saw Robino stumble as he returned from the one-mile roundtrip Natural Bridge Trail. They offered to help him, but he declined. They said his responses did not make sense.
Robino got in his car and drove off a steep 20-foot embankment at the edge of the parking lot. The car rolled over and airbags deployed. A bystander left to call 911. Other visitors helped Robino walk back to the parking lot and provided him shade.
Park Service emergency responders got the 911 call at 3:50 p.m. and arrived at 4:10. Those trying to help said Robino was breathing until just before the park rangers arrived. EMTs started CPR and moved Robino into the air-conditioned ambulance. He was declared deceased at 4:42.
An autopsy found that Robino died of hyperthermia. Symptoms of overheating can include confusion, irritability, and lack of coordination. The Furnace Creek weather station recorded 119° F that afternoon.
“My condolences go out to Mr. Robino’s family and friends,” said Superintendent Mike Reynolds, who was one of the EMTs that responded to this incident. “His death serves as a reminder not to underestimate the dangers of extreme heat.”
If you RV or otherwise travel in hot areas, protect yourself from this danger.
- Avoid the heat by staying in or near air-conditioning.
- Don’t hike after 10 a.m. at low elevations.
- Drink plenty of water (and take plenty with you).
- Eat salty snacks.
This report was prepared with information from an NPS news release.
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Thank you, Russ and Tina! 🙂 Wow! 😯 I guess he was too far gone, too delirious to sit in his car with the air conditioning running. Very tragic to have been among so many willing to try to help, yet decline it to his detriment. 🙁 Thank you for harping on this, Russ and Tina! Way too many have succumbed to the heat. Thanks again, have a great day, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂