A daring helicopter rescue saved four women stranded on the Macbeth Ice Fields in B.C.’s West Kootenay region last week. The women, all residents of British Columbia, found themselves in peril as the Argenta Creek wildfire rapidly approached their campsite. The quick response and bravery of the Kaslo Search and Rescue team made the rescue possible, despite the challenging conditions.
“Embers Were Falling on Their Tent”
Mark Jennings-Bates, the manager of Kaslo Search and Rescue, described the harrowing situation. “Embers were falling on their tent, so they ran for their lives,” he said. The hikers managed to reach a safe spot at the toe of the glacier, surrounded by rocks and next to an alpine lake.
The thick smoke from the wildfire made visibility difficult for the helicopter pilot, complicating the rescue operation. “It’s like a war zone,” Jennings-Bates explained. Despite the adverse conditions, the rescue team successfully located the women using a text message sent via Apple’s emergency SOS function. “In this instance, their cellphone literally saved their lives,” he added.
Importance of Preparedness
The rescue underscores the importance of being prepared during wildfire season. Jennings-Bates emphasized the need for hikers and campers to have a clear plan and to ensure that someone knows their whereabouts. “Have a plan, make sure people know that plan,” he advised.
Kim Wright, an information officer at the Southeast Fire Centre, echoed this sentiment. She urged residents to pack a grab-and-go bag with essential items, perform FireSmart tasks around their homes, and sign up for emergency alerts. “Everyone in British Columbia should be taking steps to be prepared,” Wright said.
A Season of Challenges
The Southeast Fire Centre, which covers over eight million hectares, has been battling numerous wildfires sparked by a lightning storm on July 17. The Argenta Creek wildfire has already caused the evacuation of both Argenta and Johnsons Landing. Jennings-Bates and his crew had been delivering evacuation notices for 14 hours before receiving the call to rescue the stranded hikers.
The hikers were well-prepared and remained calm throughout the ordeal. Jennings-Bates praised their preparedness, noting that they would have been safe for a few days due to their strategic location and the supplies they had on hand.
The successful rescue of the four hikers by Kaslo Search and Rescue highlights the bravery and dedication of the rescue team and the importance of preparedness during wildfire season. As wildfires continue to pose a significant threat across British Columbia, officials urge residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant and ready for any emergency.
