Firefighters locate, safely return lost hikers in Monserate Mountain area

North County Fire Protection District spokesperson Capt. John Choi reported Friday, Jan. 15 that the department was able to locate and return two lost hikers, one of which suffered a fall, after they got lost "fairly far away" from the Monserate Mountain Trail in Fallbrook.

Capt. Choi reported that NCFPD called in an ASTREA aircraft to help locate the hikers, and when they did, guided the department's ground troops to them and return pair back to safety.

Capt. Choi reported neither hiker had suffered any life-threatening injuries.

"This would be a good time to emphasize the importance of wearing a bright colored outfit when on these trails," Capt. Choi said. "You never know when you'll need to be rescued. Have a mirror with you that you can flash and wearing brightly adorned colors are very good for hiking."