On the evening of August 9th at 8:30pm, Comox Valley Search & Rescue was activated to locate, assess, and transport a seriously injured skier from the Moat Lake area of Strathcona Park.
The 32-year-old man was skiing an isolated snowfield when he lost control and sustained serious head and leg injuries that left him unable to move. With only minutes to spare before the legal grounding time for most helicopters, a Comox Valley Search & Rescue ground team was deployed. The team set out on the 3–3.5 hour hike to reach the injured skier. At the same time they put in a request for a helicopter with night operations capability.
North Shore Rescue was initially tasked but diverted to another priority and 19 Wing’s 442 Squadron was mobilized. SAR Techs from 442 supported by a Cormorant helicopter were able to hoist the man and transfer him to BC Emergency Health Services for further care.
Comox Valley Search & Rescue issued the following reminder to those who chose to travel in the backcountry:
“A reminder for all backcountry travellers: Emergency services are not just moments away. Mobilizing teams and reaching remote sites takes time, and factors like weather and darkness can add significant delays. Always carry an emergency communication device, call early, provide an accurate location, give clear details about the injured person and local conditions, and be prepared to wait. Help will come, but it may be hours before it arrives.” –Comox Valley Search & Rescue
About Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue:
Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue has played a vital role in the Comox Valley for over 50 years and we look forward to many more years of service.
We are a volunteer organization providing a wide range of search and rescue services, including rope and swift water rescue, avalanche rescue, and first aid. Our coverage area ranges from Oyster River in the north to Cook Creek in the south and from Buttle Lake in the west to the Georgia Strait in the east, including Denman and Hornby Islands. We also work closely with other Search and Rescue groups to provide mutual aid to communities across the province.
Our highly committed volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In 2024, our 60+ members responded to 73 tasks and collectively contributed over 15,000 hours to search and rescue operations, educational programs, and community events.
Related: Colorado’s Alpine Rescue Team Highlights The Importance Of Bright Colors On The Trail
