As the weather warms in Washington State, outdoor enthusiasts are flocking the mountains and search and rescue teams are seeing in uptick in emergency rescue situations.
In the span of 48-hours, three separate rescues were required on Mt. Baker including two involving climbers and one involving a skier who was helicoptered out from Coleman Glacier after injuring their knee.
“These incidents highlight the importance of preparedness, proper gear, and emergency planning. We’re grateful for the expertise and dedication of our local rescue teams. If you’re heading into the wilderness, consider bringing a Garmin InReach or similar device – it could make all the difference in an emergency.” -Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office
We echo Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office’s sentiment on the importance of preparedness prior to entering the backcountry and encourage folks to consider acquiring Garmin type devices as a way to reach out in emergency backcountry situations. Read the full statement from Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office below.
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Statement:
Beautiful weather brings us outdoors to enjoy Whatcom County’s stunning landscapes, but it also increases the risk of accidents in the wilderness. Over the past 48 hours, we’ve seen multiple rescues on Mt. Baker that serve as a stark reminder of the risks and consequences of wilderness accidents.
On May 27, deputies dispatched BMRC (Bellingham Mountain Rescue Council) to two separate incidents involving climbers with serious injuries – a possible dislocated patella and a torn Achilles tendon – both located via their Garmin InReach devices. The teams performed pack-outs, bringing the patients to safety.
And today, May 28, a skier suffered a knee injury on Coleman Glacier at 8,700 feet. Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office helicopter responded with a winch rescue, safely transporting the patient to medical care.
These incidents highlight the importance of preparedness, proper gear, and emergency planning. We’re grateful for the expertise and dedication of our local rescue teams. If you’re heading into the wilderness, consider bringing a Garmin InReach or similar device – it could make all the difference in an emergency.
