KENT, Conn.—First responders from the regional Wilderness Rescue Team worked for more than four hours Tuesday night to rescue a hiker from the Cobble Mountain Western Lookout in Macedonia Brook State Park in Macedonia Brook State Park.
The responders encountered a number of challenges in the rescue, including very steep terrain that required rope deployment, the dark of night—which poses particular problems for trail rescues—a lack of cell service, which lessened GPS capabilities, and the number of people required to locate, treat and transport the victim out of the woods.
The emergency responders needed multiple teams consisting of more than 20 persons to locate, assess, stabilize and move the victim to the waiting ambulance for transport to a hospital.
Because of the terrain, the operation required continuous rope systems throughout the descent, according to Kent Assistant Chief Gary Hock. Two units deployed ropes, ensuring rescuers were always on a rope for safety. Crews also used a Stokes basket, equipped with a motorcycle wheel provided by the Sherman Fire Department, to help navigate the slope and transport the individual securely.
The most difficult challenge at the beginning of the rescue was the lack of cell service, which prevented the team from using GPS mapping programs to locate the individual. Hock, who was directly involved with the rescue, was able to establish the exact location once the team reached a point high enough to access cellular data.
The rescue team consisted of emergency personnel from the Kent, Sherman, Gaylordsville and Warren, coordinating closely with State Police and DEEP officers.
The responders from different units worked well together, according to Hock, with operations running smoothly despite the challenging conditions. Because of this teamwork and technical expertise, the individual was rescued without injury.
“We are grateful for the cooperation of all the departments involved,” said
Hock. “This incident demonstrates how vital mutual aid is in responding to emergencies in difficult and remote locations, and how well-trained teams can work together seamlessly even in challenging situations.”
This story was updated Friday, Sept. 5
