Rescuers with Central Okanagan Search and Rescue based in British Columbia, Canada, were shocked to learn that what had been reported as someone shouting for help was actually a camper enjoying some tent-side karaoke. The incident occurred near the Boulderfields off the Kettle Valley Railway, a popular climbing site. While the incident was undoubtedly quite funny, it serves as a reminder of the vital work done by search and rescue teams across the world, often times for no cost at all.
The Search and Rescue Incident
According to a post from the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR), the incident occurred last Thursday night on September 31st. Two concerned hikers called 911 after hearing multiple calls for help. COSAR responded to the reports coming from the Boulderfields area.
A full contingent of members, two Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers, and the COSAR drone team responded. The first handful of responders could hear faint yelling upon their arrival. Unfortunately they couldn’t quite make out what the person was yelling, or singing.
Half the team prepped to comb the woods and the other half searched nearby forest roads. Then the rescuers found the “distressed” individual. It turned out to be a lone camper enjoying a bit of tent-side singing. He had no idea that the acoustics of the Boulderfields had created a search and rescue operation.
“He wasn’t in trouble. Unless you count his singing.” – COSAR Search Manager Duane Tresnich.
Safety Takeaways
While this incident was just the result of a casual wilderness karaoke enjoyer, COSAR pointed out how important it is to call in these types of situations. This could have been a much more serious situation, especially with tricky terrain and bike trails filling the area, and it’s always better to be safe then sorry.
“And remember, our services are always free. And the money you save could be spent on singing lessons.” – COSAR
