Hats off to the Utah DPS Aero Bureau who rescued a pair of hikers in distress stranded high on the cliffs of Maple Canyon this week. One of the hikers safely waited for a hoist on a large rock platform while the other clinged for her life on a small ledge with just enough room wait for help. With no safe way down and nightfall approaching, DPS Aero Bureau crew stepped in and brought them both to safety.
The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) is comprised of 11 divisions. Within those 11 divisions are 4 specialized units that include the Aero Bureau, Dive Team, Public Protection Unit and Special Emergency Response Team. The DPS Aero Bureau provides invaluable and lifesaving assistance to Utah citizens, law enforcement and state agencies.
In 2016, the bureau equipped the DPS helicopter with hoist capabilities allowing the team to help rescue lost civilians in the most isolated locations and lift them to safety.
Each year DPS pilots and tactical flight officers are sent on rescue and recovery missions across Utah and neighboring states.
