Family of hikers stranded in woods spends 24 hours in cold, Oregon rescuers say
A family of six spent 24 hours in the cold after getting stranded during a hike in Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon, deputies said.
One person in the group used their iPhone to send a text message to authorities at about 7:30 p.m. on March 19, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
Apple’s Emergency SOS feature sends a message to first responders through satellite, so a message can go through without cell service or Wi-Fi.
Rescuers were then able to get information about their location and begin searching for them.
The family, which included adults ages 19, 32, 47 and 52, and children ages 9 and 11, had hiked 8 miles and gained 3,500 feet in elevation when they realized they were stuck, deputies said.
A helicopter couldn’t reach the hikers that same day because of weather conditions, so they sent a snowcat the next day at about 10 a.m., deputies said.
It took several hours for the snowcat to reach the family because of difficult terrain, deputies said.
They were returned to the search and rescue command post along U.S. Route 26 by 7:30 p.m., about 24 hours after they sent a message asking for help, deputies said.
Mount Hood National Forest is in northwestern Oregon, and it spans across 1.1 million acres. A third of that is “designated wilderness.”
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published March 21, 2024 at 1:53 PM with the headline "Family of hikers stranded in woods spends 24 hours in cold, Oregon rescuers say."
