What hikers need to know to stay safe amid wildfire season Hiking can quickly become dangerous if you're not prepared for the possibility of a wildfire, especially in areas without a cell phone signal. Author: Luke Cleary Updated: 11:30 PM PDT July 3, 2021 SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Conditions are ripe for wildfire across the state of California, including popular hiking spots. While there are more ways than ever for hikers to keep informed about wildfire risks, cell phone reception is spotty along the rustic trails. "There is this little app that I downloaded that lets me know if there's a fire in the area, so I'm definitely alert to that," said Monique Vandenbos, who went hiking at Auburn State Recreation Area with her mother and her nephew Saturday.