Cliff Rescue in Pacifica

On January 27, 2017 at 9:30 p.m. 3 Fire Companies, 1 Technical Rescue Unit and 1 Chief Officer responded to a cliff rescue in the area of 320 Esplanade in the City of Pacifica.

Upon arrival, fire companies determined an adult male that had fallen down the side of a cliff and due to the location it required firefighters to repel approximately 100 feet to perform the rescue and extricate the patient. Additionally, a CHP helicopter was brought in the assist with lightning the area and should there be the need to utilize the copter for extrication.

Utilizing a rope rescue system, along with rescue basket firefighter/paramedics went over the edge repelling down the side of the cliff in order to reach the victim.  After reaching and making contact with the patient, firefighter/paramedics assessed the patient’s injuries and treated the medical conditions found.  Once the patient was stabilized, firefighters placed the injured hiker into the rescue basket and brought the patient up the side of the cliff.

The hiker had moderate injuries and was transported by a paramedic ambulance unit to the hospital. The incident was mitigated in approximately two hours.

North County Fire Authority reminds the public to maintain situational awareness and keep safety in mind at all times.