Sunshine Coast search and rescue volunteers helped save two people on Dec. 11 who were left stranded after getting their truck stuck in a creek north of the airport.
Sunshine Coast RCMP were initially called and they notified search and rescue just after midnight.
“They were very wet and very cold and possibly nearing hypothermia. One was a new resident on the Coast and the other was visiting family on the Coast,” said SAR publicity director Robert Allen. “Fortunately they had a cell phone with them and were able to call 9-1-1 for assistance. The cell phone was also equipped with a GPS so they were able to provide their approximate location.
“Apparently, their troubles had started earlier in the evening when they were asked by some other people to help them get their truck out of a mud hole. Being good Samaritans, they gave assistance and got the other party on their way but got themselves stuck while doing so. They expected the other party to help them get out but they were immediately left on their own.”
Allen said after trying for a few hours to get out, they finally called for help.
“One of the good Samaritans ruined his shoes and his shirt and when we got to them, he was only wearing socks, wet and dirty jeans, and no shirt,” said Allen. “His friend was just as wet and dirty. We quickly bundled them up in blankets and our own coats and drove them to the search and rescue hall where an ambulance was waiting to check them over.”
Allen said they were then taken to St. Mary’s Hospital for further observations and then released. The next day they went back with some other friends to retrieve their truck.
SAR members were all home by 3:30 a.m.
“Fortunately for the subjects, they had a cell phone equipped with a GPS and with our local knowledge we were able to determine the fastest way to approach them and get them out to safety as soon as possible,” said Allen. “They also stayed with their vehicle and were able to stay out of the elements as much as possible. SC SAR wants to remind everyone that before heading out into the back country that it is good practice to let someone know where you plan to go and what time you plan to be back.”
— Submitted
