On Sunday, June 18, 2017, at 10:00 pm, Douglas County Search and Rescue received a distress message from two lost hikers. The two hikers had planned on hiking the North Umpqua trail from Maidu lake to Swift Water trail head, which they had done several times before and were familiar with the area. The pair began their hike in favorable conditions. As they gained elevation, they began to confront problems. The snow was still several feet deep. The two were unable to locate the trail any longer and became lost. They had planned ahead and were prepared with enough food for seven days, sleeping gear, and shelter. However, they did not have a map and compass. The pair stayed overnight until rescue crews could be deployed in the morning. On Monday, June 19, 2017, SAR located the subjects. Due to snow and weather conditions, crews were unable to lead the pair out on the shortest route. Instead, SAR members lead the subjects to safety by going to Miller Lake in Klamath County for extraction. The total mission lasted about 6 hours. Search and Rescue would like to remind everyone of the following tips: Your safety is our concern, but it is your responsibility. You are responsible for yourself, so be prepared. Here are some ways that you can be better prepared in the event something goes awry on your next outdoor adventure. Be prepared with knowledge and gear. Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you set out. – Share your plans. Tell someone where you are going, where you plan to hike or recreate, when you will return and your plan for emergencies. Leave a map, if possible. – Stay together. When you start as a group, stay as a group and end as a group. Pace your adventure to the slowest person. – Know when to turn back. Weather changes come quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your adventure. Know your limitations and when to postpone the trip. The outdoors will be there another day. – Plan for emergencies. Whether you are out for an hour or a multi-day trip, an injury, severe weather or wrong turn could become life threatening. Don’t assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself. Always carry equipment in case you have to spend the night. Have food, water, shelter, weather appropriate clothing and carry a first aid kit. – Communication devices. A cell phone alone does not suffice as an emergency plan. A large portion of our remote areas do not have cell phone coverage. Whichever communication device you decide to carry, make sure you have sufficient power. An alternate power supply is a good idea. If you choose to recreate alone, personal locator beacons are a valuable tool and provide rescuers a better opportunity to find you.
