Alpine Rescue Team Calls Up 300% This Year, Mostly For Avalanches
DENVER (CBS4)- Rescue calls are up 300% this year for the Alpine Rescue Team. The crew covers Jefferson, Clear Creek and Gilpin counties.
Rescuers say most of the calls are avalanche-related and lost people. They're trying to figure out how to communicate the message to backcountry skiers, boarders and snowmobilers that they need to be careful. A total of 11 people have died in avalanches in Colorado so far this season.
"What's it like getting that call and getting to the mountain and searching for this person?" CBS4's Dominic Garcia asked.
"It's not a fun feeling, it's not a fun feeling to drive in the mountains thinking, 'How am I going to help this person today, are we gonna get there in time and what can we do to help this person get out of their situation?'" answered Dawn Wilson with the Alpine Rescue Team.
Rescuers ask that everyone headed into the backcountry be careful, have the right gear, know the snow conditions and be prepared to turn around and go home if there is any risk.