On Sunday night, September 29th, Everett Mountain Rescue (EMR) responded to a call for a hiker who suffered severe injuries after falling off trail, sliding down a wet, slippery slope, and landing on hard rock in a cold pool of water. Fortunately, other hikers nearby heard cries for help and were able to pull the hiker from the water and call for emergency assistance.

EMR quickly responded alongside other SCVSAR units to the scene. The subject sustained multiple serious injuries and was also suffering from hypothermia due to prolonged exposure from the cold water and dropping temperatures. Our teams immediately provided medical care to stabilize, administer first aid, and warm the subject.

Given the steep terrain, teams secured the subject in a litter and implemented a rigging system to safely lift the subject back up to the trail. From there, the subject was transported back to the trailhead to receive further medical care.

This mission is a testament to the importance of ongoing training, teamwork, and preparation. We are incredibly grateful to all the volunteers who responded, the medical teams that took over the subject care once back at the trailhead, and the hikers who played a role in this successful rescue. It’s through ongoing collaboration and dedication that we can navigate these complex missions and help bring people home.

Nature can be unpredictable – stay safe out there and always be prepared.