Vernon Search and Rescue assisted with the rescue of an injured patient in the steep terrain surrounding Fintry Falls on the night of July 8.
Just before 7 p.m., crews were requested by BC Emergency Health Services. North Westside Fire Rescue also responded and quickly reached the patient, providing an initial assessment.
Vernon Search and Rescue said it was quickly determined the patient’s injuries, combined with the terrain, meant members needed to call in the “big guns.” A request was made for the Penticton and District Search and Rescue Class D helicopter long-line team.
During the rescue, wind and heavy smoke created additional challenges. A helicopter arrived, but swirling winds through the canyon made flight operations unsafe.
Vernon Search and Rescue began “Plan B,” performing a rope rescue from above the patient. The patient was packaged for transport and secured in a rescue basket.
With assistance from North Westside Fire Rescue, the patient was raised about 65 metres to the top of the canyon wall, where they were transferred to the care of waiting BC Emergency Health Services crews.
Officials said the rescue was completed at 2 a.m. Vernon Search and Rescue thanked North Westside Fire Rescue, BC Emergency Health Services and Penticton and District Search and Rescue for their teamwork.
