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KSAR and RCMP respond to call for help
Kimberley Search and RescueĀ (KSAR)Ā were requested to assist RCMP Monday, March 24 regarding a request for medical aid.
A snowmobiler had observed a sign at the intersection of the Lussier Creek Forest Service Road (FSR) and the Ram Creek FSRĀ that said, “need help Dr 911.”Ā The sledder reported the sighting to the RCMP.
Given the terrain in the area and the overall avalanche risk the KSAR Search Manager Scott MacLeod decided that an avalanche risk assessment should be done before deploying any personnel.Ā A helicopter was approved by the ECC and a CAA Level II Avalanche Technician, who is also a member of Fernie SAR, was called out.
The Avalanche Tech was transported by helicopter to Kimberley where two members of KSAR’s avalanche team and two RCMP members were picked up.
The team then flew down the access route via Lussier Creek FSR and located the sign where described.Ā There was no sign of the subject requesting assistance.Ā The immediate area was checked and then the team flew outĀ assessingĀ the Ram Creek FSR.
At the conclusion ofĀ the flightĀ the Search Manager, who is a CAA Level I Avalanche Tech and the Fernie Level II Tech discussed the terrain and Avalanche Threat Level. The police members involved contributed regarding the status of their investigation and their further plans.Ā It was decided not to deploy searchers that night.
On Tuesday, March 25 KSAR members, assisted by members from Cranbrook Search and Rescue initiated a search of the access to the area where the sign had been found.Ā None of the members were deployed into avalanche terrain.Ā RCMP members continued their investigation using the RCMP helicopter and other means.Ā The subject was located in good health later that day as the result of the RCMP investigations.
Cpl. Chris Newel, Kimberley RCMP commented, āThe combined effort of the search and rescue volunteers and RCMP led to a successful conclusion. SAR volunteers are committed to assisting those in need; they put their lives on hold to help others. Their training and expertise is invaluable and trulyĀ appreciated Ā in situations like this.ā
Kimberley Search and Rescue is always looking for volunteer members and will be starting a training program in the near future.Ā If interested give Scott a call at 250-417-5309 or call the SAR phone at 250-427-5998.
Scott Macleod – KSAR President / Search Manager
