The rescue of a man who fell about 30 feet at Tangerine Falls above Montecito prompted a reminder to hikers that wet rocks are slippery and be aware of other hazards due to recent rains.

The warnings came after crews from the Montecito and Santa Barbara County fire departments and the county Air Support Unit responded Saturday afternoon to a report involving a fall victim in Cold Spring Canyon above Montecito.

“The fall patient was fortunate to potentially have only a hip injury,” Montecito fire officials said Sunday.

Just after 3 p.m., crews from both agencies hiked up the 2½-mile trail to the 100-foot waterfall while Copter 3 lowered a firefighter/paramedic.

Ultimately, the helicopter hoisted both the firefighter and the 28-year-old victim into the aircraft to be transported to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

The victim’s identity was not disclosed, and his medical condition was not available Sunday.

Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue volunteers and American Medical Response also assisted in the incident.

Montecito Fire representatives noted that the recent rains have increased the water flow in various creeks and other waterways.

“The higher flow in the creek and stream channels create extreme fall risk on the wet surfaces,” Montecito Fire representatives said.

Patients rescued at Tangerine Falls often end up getting hoisted out due to their traumatic injuries, Montecito Fire officials said.

“Back country rescues create a significant injury risk for responders as they hike in with hundreds of pounds of equipment, then have to bring out a patient strapped into a Stokes basket, rolling and carrying it all over numerous large rocks, boulders, creek crossings and infinite other hazards.”

These rescues require approximately 15 personnel depending on the location. 

“Stay safe, be smart, and please keep your responders’ safety and well-being in mind when hiking in our backcountry.”