Search and Rescue Missions in the Winter
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)– On December 1, New York State Police and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) forest rangers began searching for a missing hiker in Essex County. 22-year-old Leo DuFour, of Vaudreuil, Quebec, was last known to be wearing a black coat, black pants, a tan winter hat, hiking boots, reflective sunglasses, and a black backpack.
After eight days of searching and harsh weather conditions, officials say the search mission turned into a recovery mission.
On December 15, the Schoharie County Sheriff’s Office requested DEC forest rangers’ assistance to search for a hiker in the Blenheim State Forest. After following tracks in the snow overnight, forest rangers found the hiker and treated the person for frostbite.
These are just some of the search missions DEC Forest Rangers have conducted in 2024. Last year, the DEC responded to 270 search and rescue missions.
Winter Hiking Safety Tips
What to Wear:
- Base layers including waterproof or water-resisting outer layers. Avoid cotton materials
- Thick socks, a winter hat, gloves or mittens
- Waterproof, insulated boots
- Skis or snowshoes
- A watch or time-keeping device
What to Pack:
- Water and high energy snacks
- First Aid Kit
- Map or Compass
- Extra clothing, extra hats, socks, mittens
- Plastic whistle
- Flashlight
- Micro-spikes
- Trekking poles
- Space blanket and heavy-duty garbage bags
- Fire Starter Kit
When on the Trail:
- Watch the weather conditions, if conditions worsen, head back
- Add or remove layers of clothing to keep body temperature comfortable; overheating and sweating can result in significant cooling and hypothermia.
- Stay on trails to avoid unseen obstacles covered by snow
- Use snowshoes or skis in deep snow to reduce injuries
- Snowshoes or skis are required in the High Peaks when snow depth exceeds 8 inches
If You Get Lost:
- Try to determine your location, look for recognizable landmarks
- Use a map or compass, otherwise stay in place
- Call DEC dispatch, 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) or 911, if you have cell service
- If you don’t have cell service, wear something brightly colored, or put a brightly covered item in a conspicuous location
- Clear an area of snow to build a campfire for heat and light
- Use snow or items from your pack to build a shelter that could keep you warm
Conclusion
As the winter season approaches, it’s essential to be prepared for search and rescue missions. By following these safety tips and packing the right essentials, you can minimize the risk of getting lost or injured while hiking. Remember to always check the weather conditions and stay on trails to avoid unseen obstacles. If you do get lost, stay calm and follow the steps outlined above.
FAQs
Q: What should I wear while hiking in the winter?
A: Wear base layers including waterproof or water-resisting outer layers, thick socks, a winter hat, gloves or mittens, waterproof, insulated boots, and skis or snowshoes.
Q: What should I pack while hiking in the winter?
A: Pack water and high energy snacks, a First Aid Kit, a map or compass, extra clothing, extra hats, socks, mittens, a plastic whistle, flashlight, micro-spikes, trekking poles, space blanket, and heavy-duty garbage bags, and a Fire Starter Kit.
Q: What should I do if I get lost while hiking in the winter?
A: Try to determine your location, use a map or compass, stay in place, call DEC dispatch or 911 if you have cell service, and wear something brightly colored or put a brightly covered item in a conspicuous location.
Q: How can I contact DEC in case of an emergency?
A: You can contact DEC Emergency Dispatch at (518) 408-5850, in the Adirondacks at (518) 891-0235, or call 911. You can also save the DEC Forest Ranger dispatch phone number, 833-NYS-RANGERS, in your phone.
