An injured hunter was rescued from a remote mountain area near Kitamaat Village Sunday afternoon after members of the hunting group activated an SOS alert.
Kitimat Ground Search and Rescue says the incident happened approximately 16 kilometres from Kitamaat Village.
The group used an inReach satellite communication device to send the alert, providing a way to call for help in an area where conventional cellular service may not be available.
Eight KGSAR members responded to the emergency.
Due to the remote and mountainous terrain, two KGSAR members were transported into the area by Canadian Helicopters. The rescuers were then able to reach the hunting group and assist with evacuating the injured hunter.
The response was coordinated with the Kitimat RCMP, BC Ambulance Service, Kitimat Fire Department and Canadian Helicopters.
Because the emergency department at Kitimat General Hospital was temporarily closed, the patient was transported by air to the emergency department in Terrace for further medical care.
The operation was resolved within several hours of the initial SOS activation.
KGSAR thanked the emergency-service partners involved in the response, particularly Canadian Helicopters for providing aviation support.
“Canadian Helicopters provided critical aviation support that enabled rescuers to access the remote location efficiently and safely,” KGSAR said in a release.
The organization also recognized the cooperation and coordination of the RCMP, BC Ambulance Service and Kitimat Fire Department.
Following the rescue, KGSAR issued a reminder for people heading into the backcountry to be prepared for the challenges that can come with remote terrain.
“Remote terrain can present significant challenges for emergency responders,” the organization said.
KGSAR recommends that hunters, hikers and other backcountry users make sure someone knows their planned route and expected return time before heading out.
People should also carry equipment appropriate for the conditions and have a reliable way to communicate during an emergency.
Satellite communication and SOS devices such as an inReach can be particularly useful in areas without cellular coverage.
“Know how your device works before you need it, and make sure it is charged and accessible while travelling,” KGSAR said.
