In the last 10 days, St. Catharines Fire has conducted 5 rescue operations.
St. Catharines Deputy Fire Chief Dave Upper says it feels like Groundhog Day as people continue to ignore the message to stay on the trails.
"If we were to use the provincial rates that fire departments have when we respond to the highway, if we apply those same rates we're about $2,500 each time we respond to Decew to perform a rescue."
Previously, Mayor Walter Sendzik has said the city is looking at posting more signs or possible fines for off-trail rescues.
Upper notes handing out a fine would be one thing, but getting someone to pay it - especially a young person - is another matter entirely.
Upper says crews conduct 3 - 5 rescues in a typical season.
StC Fire with NEMS and NRPS at Decew Falls executing a rescue. Please stay on the trail. pic.twitter.com/DeMfNYQ2Ao
— Dave Upper (@DaveUpper_) June 14, 2020