[Update — Aug. 20: Rocky Mountain Conservancy also accepts donations to help us fund training, supplies, personnel, and access to specialized behavioral health services RMNP Search and Rescue. To make a donation, please click here.]
Members of the Rocky Mountain National Search and Rescue Team (RMNP SAR) were involved in an emergency rescue Friday afternoon near Estes Cone in the south-eastern portion of the park.
A 70-year old male had fallen 15 to 20-feet in the area shortly before noon. The incident was reported to RMNP rangers by a park visitor.
The hike to the top of Estes Cone, which begins at the Longs Peak trailhead at 9,400 ft, is considered strenuous. The 6.5 mile roundtrip route passes by the abandoned Eugenia mine and early 1900s homestead of Carl P. Norwall before reaching the summit at 11,006 ft.
The RMNP SAR Team provided care on scene and prepared the individual to be transported via a hoist.
Park rangers were assisted by a Colorado Army National Guard (COARNG) helicopter from Buckley Space Force Base to extricate the man. Rocky Mountain Rescue Group assisted with helicopter hoist operations. Buckley Space Force Base is located in Aurora.
The hiker was transferred to a Med Evac air ambulance at Upper Beaver Meadows and flown to further emergency care.
The Rocky Mountain Rescue Group is an all-volunteer professional rescue organization headquartered in Boulder. The members are trained and equipped for search and rescue on mountainous terrain and in all weather conditions. Organized as a nonprofit 501(c)3, RMRG does not charge for its services. Click here to learn more or to make a contribution to RMRG.
The Colorado Army National Guard is the most active SAR of the Army National Guards in the nation. In 2017, the COARNG flew 63% of all SAR missions in the United States.
According to the Colorado Search and Rescue Association, there are approximately 3,000 SAR incidents in the state each year.
In a news release from RMNP Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson, visitors to the park are advised to be prepared when setting out on any park adventure and activity. “In addition to carrying the ten essentials and packing extra food and water, know your own limits and take time to adequately rest and consume water and salty snacks when recreating in the mountains,” said Patterson.
National Park Service Ten Essentials
The National Park Service recommends that visitors planning a trip into one of the National Parks pack a at minimum a collection of 10 basic first aid and emergency items that can be invaluable in the event of minor injuries, sudden weather changes, or unexpected delays. The NPS Ten Essentials include:
NAVIGATION – Map, compass, and GPS system
Navigation systems are used when planning your route before your trip, and when you need help orienting yourself in your surroundings during your activity. Know how to use a topographical or relief map as well as your compass or GPS unit before going out.
SUN PROTECTION – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat
Sun protection is necessary to protect your skin and eyes against harsh UV rays that are responsible for sunburns and skin cancer. Consider using sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats. Sun-protection clothing such as pants and long sleeve shirts can also help minimize your exposure to the sun.
INSULATION – Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear
Nature is unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. Pack an extra layer of clothing that reflects the most extreme conditions you could encounter.
ILLUMINATION – Flashlight, lanterns, and headlamp
Lighting is indispensable in the outdoors where no conventional light sources can be found. Items include flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps. Headlamps are the preferred light source because they are hands-free. Be sure to pack extra batteries.
FIRST-AID SUPPLIES – First Aid Kit
Be prepared for emergencies by packing first-aid supplies with you. Start with a pre-made kit and modify it to fit your trip and your medical needs. Check the expiration date on all items and replace them as needed. Consider including an emergency guide in case you are faced with an unfamiliar medical emergency.
FIRE – Matches, lighter and fire starters
Fire can be an emergency signal and a heat source for cooking and staying warm. Pack matches (preferably waterproof) and fire starters – items that catch fire quickly and sustain a flame (e.g. lighter). Familiarize yourself with the fire use regulations of your park before heading out. Learn more about campfires.
REPAIR KIT AND TOOLS – Duct tape, knife, screwdriver, and scissors
Carry a basic repair kit with you to help repair equipment. The kit should include items such as duct tape, a knife, and scissors. Consider packing a multi-tool, a compact version of many tools that can include a knife, screwdriver, can opener, etc. Be sure to bring any tools specific to your trip and your activity.
NUTRITION – Food
You should always be prepared for the possibility of changes to your trip plans. Pack an extra day’s supply of food, preferably no-cook items that have good nutritional value in order to keep your energy high. Salty and easy to digest snacks (e.g. trail mix, nuts, and granola bars) work well for outdoor activities.
HYDRATION – Water and water treatment supplies
Staying hydrated on your trip is of utmost importance! Physical activity increases your risk of dehydration (loss of water and salts from the body), which can lead to negative health consequences. If you’re active outdoors (hiking, biking, running, swimming, etc.), especially in hot weather, you should drink water often and before you feel thirsty. Prepare your water before you need it and do not allow yourself to become dehydrated. Before heading out on your trip, be sure to identify if there are any bodies of water at your destination that you could collect water from and treat using your water treatment supplies. Learn more about purifying water.
EMERGENCY SHELTER – Tent, space blanket, tarp, and bivy
Shelter is one of the most important elements during an emergency survival situation. It can protect you from severe weather conditions and exposure to the elements. A tent, tarp, bivy sack, or emergency space blanket are all lightweight options for emergency shelter.
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