A male hiker experiencing fainting spells was carried to safety Sunday from a remote trail in the Los Padres National Forest above Santa Barbara.

At 9:45 a.m., personnel from Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue along with Santa Barbara County firefighters responded to a report of an unconscious hiker at the Inspiration Point trail. 

Crews reached the hiker, determined he was in stable condition and prepped the patient for transport down the trail in a rescue basket with a wheel as they trekked across sometimes treacherous terrain.

Once volunteers transported the patient to safety, an awaiting American Medical Response ambulance crew evaluated the man, who was later released, authorities said. 

The rescue effort spanned more than two hours Sunday.

“We want to remind those hitting the trails that if you’re lost or in need of medical attention, please do not hesitate calling 911,” SAR representatives said.  “There is no charge for rescue and that should never be a limiting factor when determining a need for help.”

The Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue team is an all-volunteer organization funded by generous donations.

To help support the mission or find out how to volunteer, visit the website at sbcsar.net for more information.