ALTON — Searchers from the N.H. Fish and Game Department helped a party of unprepared hikers from Somersworth off Mount Major Sunday night when they became stranded after dark and called for a rescue.

The group included Aaron Huertas, 34, his young son, Tyler, his girlfriend, Hailey Corlis, 27; and a 12-year-old family friend, Hanna Weeden.

The group began their hike up the mountain at 4 p.m. They were wearing shorts, T-shirts and sneakers and had only a small light with them. It took longer than they expected to reach the summit, and they were on the trail coming down when darkness fell. The hikers called 911 for help at 9:17 p.m.

Three members of the Alton Fire Department assisted Fish and Game and went to the mountain and brought the hikers out. Storms were moving through the area during the evening, so officials were concerned about getting the group off the mountain safely. Rescuers reached the hikers about 10:40 p.m., and they returned to the trailhead at 11:25 p.m.

“These hikers left on their hike too late in the day, and they were not prepared with sufficient lights, warm clothing, food or water,” said N.H. Fish and Game Conservation Officer Ronald Arsenault. “The days are getting shorter now, so people need to consider this when they plan their hikes, as well as being prepared with emergency gear.”

Learn more about safe hiking, including the 10 essentials to have in your pack, at http://www.hikesafe.com.