Search and Rescue Team Operation: Aid to lost hikers near Red's Meadow

To:       All Media Partners

From:  Jennifer M. Hansen, Public Information Officer

Date:   August 13, 2014

RE:      Search and Rescue Team Operation: Aid to lost hikers near Red’s Meadow

On the evening of Tuesday, August 12th, 2014, at approximately 5:30pm, Mono County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a 911 call regarding two lost hikers out of Red’s Meadow.

Two hikers were on a day hike from Red’s Meadow to Rainbow Falls. On the return trip from Rainbow Falls to Red’s Meadow, the hikers took the wrong trail and became lost. One of the hikers was diabetic and did not bring any medication on the day hike.  The hiker was beginning to feel chilled and other negative effects of the diabetes, and since they were lost, wasn’t sure how far they could continue hiking. The other hiker had cell phone reception and was able to call 911 and give their location near Pond Lily Lake, about 5 miles south of Red’s Meadow.

The Mono County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) team was called to aid the lost hikers. Six SAR team members staged at Minaret Vista. Due to the medical circumstance, and the hikers remote location, attempts were made to get air support for the rescue. A 551 helicopter from Yosemite National Park was available to assist the SAR team. The helicopter crew was able to fly to the hikers location, land and transport them to the SAR base at Minaret Vista. The diabetic hiker was assessed by Mono County Paramedics and required no further medical treatment. The hikers were taken to their vehicle parked near Mammoth Mountain.

The Mono County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) team reminds anyone traveling in the backcountry, even if just for a day hike, to always be prepared and carry adequate supplies, including any medications. It is important to be aware that is might take search and rescue teams time to come to your aid if you are lost, injured or ill.