Mountain-high SAR save applauded by police, nod to responsible outdoorspeople
Castlegar RCMP are singing the praises of Castlegar Search and Rescue (SAR) after a dramatic save on Sunday.
“Just before 6 a.m. on Jan. 14, the Castlegar RCMP received a report that SOS emergency beacon had been activated by a device owner,” said Castlegar RCMP NCO/ic Sgt. Monty Taylor. “The emergency beacon company had contacted police and were able to provide fulsome details surrounding the emergency as the specified emergency beacon had texting capabilities.
Taylor said the owner of the device was reporting they were in a group of five individuals who had traversed Siwash mountain in the Selkirk Mountain Range between Castlegar and Salmo for a multiple overnight back-country skiing trip.
“During the trip one of the four (other) individuals suffered a medical emergency. Though being afforded First Aid at the remote hut they were staying at, there was concern of further injury should the individual continue, which included while descending the mountain.”
Taylor said Castlegar RCMP requested the assistance of Castlegar Search and Rescue (SAR), who dispatched a team in a helicopter to attend the GPS location provided via the emergency beacon. The group was located at the specified hut on the mountain and a 34-year-old female Calgary resident was safely transported from the location, later receiving further medical care in hospital for their non life threatening injury.
“Castlegar Search and Rescue are a group of trained individuals who volunteer their time providing a valuable service for the area,” Taylor added.
There are currently 35 members of Castlegar Search and Rescue and the group is currently in the process in training 10 new members to the team.
“We, as first responders, also very much appreciate when outdoor enthusiasts are responsible and well prepared to manage difficult situations, including being able to reach out for assistance when necessary.” Taylor concluded.
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