The cold facts on hot springs

Hugo Martin wrote about a true desert oasis [“Red-Faced at SoCal Hot Springs,” On the Go, July 6]. But here’s a needed splash of cold reality before hundreds of hikers begin swarming this Apple Valley Shangri-La. The Pacific Crest Trail follows Deep Creek and passes right by the springs. Some U.S. Forest Service rules concerning the springs:

* They’re closed from sundown to sunrise.

* No camping is permitted within one mile of Deep Creek.

* No vehicles are allowed within one mile of Deep Creek, including bicycles.

Also, please carry out your refuse. Leave only footprints.

Bill O’Neill

Irvine

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I would like to alert you to an important fact. The Deep Creek thermal pools are colonized by free living amoeba of the species Naegleria, which can lead to a life-threatening and lethal disease. If one insists on swimming in Deep Creek, do not jump into the water and do not put one’s head under the water.

Dr. Robert H. Hecht

Rancho Palos Verdes