Fernie Search and Rescue (SAR) has been actively responding to a variety of incidents throughout the late summer and fall, highlighting the critical role they play in keeping the community safe.
Here’s an overview of their recent operations:
Biking incidents: The team responded to injuries on both the Contra and Trail Dogs trails that required extrication.
Searches for missing individuals: SAR assisted in multiple searches, including one at Rosen Lake, one in Wardner where K9 support was provided to a neighboring SAR group, and a search for a missing 12-year-old in the Castle Mountain area. Thankfully, all individuals were found safe and well.
Unnecessary call: A hiker on Mt. Procter called SAR out of fear of potential bears in the area (remember, SAR is for emergencies—bear concerns should be handled through proper wildlife channels).
Injured hiker: SAR responded to a hiker with a broken leg on Heiko’s Trail.
Waterton Parks assistance: The team supported Waterton Parks Visitor Safety in a few instances, aiding in the search for missing and injured hikers.
Mountain rescue: A 65-year-old woman who fell near the top of Mt. Fernie was rescued after sustaining injuries.
The main takeaway from these incidents is that accidents can happen to anyone, no matter how prepared you may be. What often makes the difference between a good and bad outcome is preparation. Having a plan, being able to call for help, carrying first aid supplies, warm clothing, and informing someone of your trip can make all the difference, especially as we approach colder weather. Wilderness rescues can take hours, and specialized resources may not always be immediately available. Waiting in the sun is very different from waiting in the cold, rain, or snow.
SAR’s success in these rescues is a result of teamwork with amazing partners such as the RCMP, BC Ambulance Service, Fernie Fire/Rescue, and the helicopter expertise of Ascent and Bighorn Helicopters.
Stay safe out there! As we head into winter, ensure you are well-prepared for any outdoor adventure.
The Fernie SAR group is comprised of volunteers who assist people in emergencies in the backcountry. Fernie Search and Rescue can be tasked by various agencies, including the RCMP, the British Columbia Ambulance Service or BCAS, Fire /Rescue, local municipalities and the Department of National Defense.
Members of the public needing a SAR response should call 911, ask for the RCMP or BCAS and state that the nature of the emergency is in the backcountry and needs a SAR response.
If you would like to make a donation you can do so online here.
Source/Photos Fernie SAR/Facebook
