May, 2012 (San Diego County) -- In light of recent rescues in the backcountry, the Sheriff's Department is reminding the public to be safe and prepared for caving or hiking.

Cave hiking can be challenging and require technical skills of varying levels. Caves are dark, muddy, rocky and at times quite wet. People can become easily disoriented once deep inside. Caves are an easy place to get hurt, and no one will know if you're trapped if no one knows you're there.