Emergencies

When Something Goes Wrong

Cell coverage gets thin on the sand. Know these three things before you need them.

Call 911 First

If you have signal, 911 is always the fastest route to help. Know roughly where you are; the nearest post number, camp name, or landmark from the map saves rescuers precious minutes.

CB Channel 9

For vehicle accidents or injuries, contact a ranger or radio ranger base on CB channel 9. It's monitored, and it works where cell phones don't.

The Call Box

An emergency solar-powered call box is located at the entrance to Sand Highway. Note it on your way in.

First Response

Until Help Arrives

Do not move an injured person unless he or she is in immediate danger. Sand riding injuries often involve the spine; wait for trained help.
Send two people for help if you have them: one to high ground for cell signal, one toward the ranger station or call box.
Mark the location. Flag down other riders; a circle of vehicles (at a safe distance) makes the scene visible to responders.

A note on CPR The original version of this page carried detailed 1990s-era CPR instructions. Guidance has changed substantially since then, and current recommendations favor hands-only CPR for untrained bystanders. Take a modern course through the American Red Cross or American Heart Association; a weekend class is the best gear you'll ever carry.

On Busy Weekends

Where to Get Help

On major holiday weekends the ranger staff is supplemented by volunteer groups such as the Sheriff's Search and Rescue and the Equestrian Mounted Assistance Patrol, all prepared to offer help and information.

Mobile ranger station: on most holiday weekends, a mobile ranger station is located at the Sand Highway entrance.
Ranger info line: (805) 473-7220 (recorded).
Stuck, not hurt? That's not an emergency. See the recovery steps and remember beach towing is available.

Know What Help Looks Like

The Cavalry, When It's Needed

Help exists out here, but it takes time to reach you on sand. Recognize these resources, know where the call box is, and ride like the ambulance is 20 minutes away — because it is.

The Emergency Call Box

Solar-powered, at the entrance to Sand Highway by the Dunes Information Center. If you have no CB and no cell signal, this is your lifeline. Show it to everyone in your crew on the way in.

San Luis Ambulance and ranger truck on the beach

Beach Ambulance

San Luis Ambulance runs the sand with ranger units. Give responders room, keep bystanders clear, and never move an injured rider unless they are in immediate danger.

CALSTAR Medevac

Serious injuries get flown out. If a helicopter is landing, stay well back and stop riding in the area: rotor wash turns loose sand into a sandblaster.