By Marty Basch

The summer's been sizzling in terms of search and rescue operations around New Hampshire's lakes and mountains.

Search and rescue teams have been involved in long bail outs recently where rescue personnel have had to hike more than four miles with people on stretchers with leg injuries like sprained and broken ankles and other medical issues.

At a time when hikers are looking for a quick get away before the kids go back to school, there is also upcoming seasonal transitions into autumn like shorter days and cooler temperatures that could thwart unprepared adventurers.

"In general, we had a minimal winter, but there is a feeling that we have been making up for it this summer," said New Hampshire Fish and Game Lieutenant Todd Bogardus. "We have had multiple back-to-back missions throughout the summer, longer and more arduous all-night carry-outs between four and a half and six miles."

According to hikesafe.com, a web site prepared by both Fish and Game and the White Mountain National Forest, at least 18 to 24 rescuers are called in to assist an injured person in the mountains.

Make the call

When alerting state police about an incident, callers should be ready to answer basic questions like who, what, when and where. They should be cognizant of the person's  name, age, gender, size, description, address and clothing. Rescue personnel also want to know what kind of gear the person was carrying, if there are any medical conditions and their outdoor experience. A last known location is critical. Also include where the person's vehicle is located, as well as a full description of it (make, model, year, license plate—all possible information), according to the site.

"People need to be prepared with the basics," said Lt. Bogardus. "Technology is a wonderful thing, but don't just rely on technology. Rely on the basics."

The summer has seen extremes from heat and humidity to abundant rain.

"In general we've had a  recent spell of spills and falls in part because of the amount of rain," said Rebecca Oreskes of the White Mountain National Forest. "A lot of the trails are wet, muddy and slick. People, even experienced hikers, are slipping. People need to plan accordingly and go slowly."

Uncomfortable heat and copious rain have their own challenges. Hikers need to stay hydrated in summer's humidity. Rain translates to mud on trails, slippery rocks and higher water levels at brook and stream crossings that can make certain waterways more dangerous to cross (even this late in the season).

Foggy stuff

Search and rescue operations aren't just for hikers who are unprepared. Even experienced hikers need help

"Sometimes it is easy to get lost above tree-line on a rocky summit in the fog," says Oreskes. "Always take time to locate where you are going before you strike out.

Even experienced hikers can get in trouble. You can do everything right and something can go wrong."

As August ticks away and September approaches, changes are in the air.

Rely on yourself

Self-responsibility and self-preparedness are keys to enjoying the backcountry safely, according to Bogardus.

"Carrying a head lamp or a flashlight can eliminate a number of calls we receive," says Bogardus. "At this point, we will soon see cooler temperatures as we get into September. It is always going to be cooler and windier on the summit."

People aren't thinking because it is 90 degrees in the valleys that the temperatures are dropping on the summits, says Oreskes.

Both Bogardus and Oreskes used Mount Washington as an example. Snow can fall on the mountain every month of the year.

"The White Mountains got their name for a reason," said Bogardus. "It may look like snow up there on bare rocks, but winter conditions can show up in September. Expect the unexpected."

Both stressed that hikers, whether novice or experienced, should visit the hikesafe.com website for tips on mountain excursions.

"The hikesafe principles are designed for all hikers, whether they are beginners or experienced," says Bogardus. "For those who think they have it all figured out, they're not as experienced as they think they are."