New York Forest Rangers Rescue Hikers from Saratoga and Ballston Lake
If you are planning to do some hiking in New York State this winter the best advice I can offer is, BE PREPARED! So many experienced and inexperienced hikers underestimate the trails, conditions, peaks and valleys and end up stranded, needing help. Those are the lucky ones as some never make it back to their vehicles.
In the last 7 days, 2 separate incidents occurred near Lake Placid requiring the assistance of our New York State Forest Rangers and every tool at their disposal to rescue hikers from Saratoga and Ballston Lake, New York.
On Tuesday December 13th, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Forest Rangers assisted a 21-year-old hiker from Saratoga who appeared to have broken their ankle. Helicopter rescue was requested but due to the location and windy conditions that was impossible.
Thirteen Rangers and additional DEC staff and volunteers helped reach and rescue the hiker who was not just suffering an injured ankle but also potential hypothermia. It took 90 minutes but they were able to use a backpack litter system to get the individual down the mountain.
The very next day, Wednesday December 14th, Ray Brook dispatch got a call regarding a hiker with an unstable hip injury. This 64-year-old hiker from Ballston Lake was reported to be in severe pain and unable to make it down the mountain alone.
Each hiker was taken to the hospital for additional medical care. In total these 2 missions required nearly 40 rescuers and volunteers to help get these individuals off the snowy, icy mountain safely.