Merry Christmas! I literally just broke my ankle in 2 places while on a backpacking trip 2 days ago. I was solo and crossing a creek. I got across just fine, it was the second creek crossing and the first went just fine, but when I went to take a step up to get out of the water somehow I slipped and fell breaking my right ankle. I was able to bandage and somewhat stableize the ankle and get myself out of the forest and call for help. I did have to leave my pack behind but a ranger did get it for me without me even asking. The EMTs were very happy to not have to go into the woods to get me and that I already had myself bandaged up and when we got to the ER they were telling others about how I self rescued. I was fortunate that I was able to do it and I’m not sure how I managed except that I did do my best to be prepared and that the Lord was with me.
"A Hiker wore Crocs Up a Mountain in Winter and Sparked A Rescue Mission"..... ............. ouch.... that just makes my head hurt..... it gives me a brain cramp.
Thank you for passing along. Too many of these stories end tragically because the individuals were untrained, ill-prepared and “just going on a day hike”.
I’ve been in search and rescue since 2018. The vast majority of SAR personnel oppose charging people for rescues. The reason being that if a person knows they will be charged they will wait longer to ask for help. The risks to SAR personnel increase when it’s dark or there is inclement weather. We want people to call for help as soon as they need help. Not to wait until it’s dark and sleeting and we can’t launch a chopper and people have to hike in. It increases odds of injury or death to SAR personnel and decreases survival odds of the subject being rescued.
@@MarkJones-sk6vk We are volunteers, but we work with paid rescuers (Army, Airforce PJ's, State Troopers). Volunteers make up the bulk of rescue work in my state. The Troopers, Army and PJ's only come out for life, limb or eyesight basically. Volunteers do the rest of it, and most body recoveries outside the city.
You make a valid point, yet I would submit that if hikers/ backpackers/ trail runners were held accountable for their decisions you would likely see fewer calls for service. I would suggest that those going into the wilderness areas provide a cash deposit, refundable upon leaving the area. No accountability is a large part of the problem.
I was going to say the same thing. SAR member since 2012, and I've seen lots of stupid things that did not turn out to be body recoveries only because the subjects called for help in time. Fear of getting charged for rescue will only lead to delays and unnecessary deaths. I don't know what the best solution is, but I cannot endorse charging for rescue. And, to the question asked by Mark, I'm on a strictly volunteer team.
These “News Stories” are extremely valuable - especially if you include a good bit of the details. It gives us an opportunity critique what someone did right as well as what they did wrong. Approached with a desire to learn, and improve, much can be gleaned from mistakes and successes. Keep them coming Luke. They can provide a great benefit to the outdoor community!
Having been on a SAR team for eleven years in MI, I appreciate you putting this information out. Also, FYI, my team was a volunteer organization as part of the emergency services department of the local PD.
As a avid hiker/peakbagger for my entire adult life(45+ years) you wouldn't believe the things I've seen on trail. Actually seen the Crocs/sandals in winter conditions numerous times myself. Seen a young man on Humphreys Peak in deep snow on Memorial Day in a pair of pool flip flops. Several years ago on Mt. Wrightson...an elderly man froze to death. He had on shorts and a grey hoodie. I had full winter survival gear and didn't leave the trailhead and advised him to do so as well...came back two days later to find out he was missing and presumed dead. And this might cause some comments but trail runners that go out with minimal to no gear are setting themselves up for disaster. I'm amazed that more people don't die frankly. I truly believe permits and a ranger presence at trailheads to turn back ill prepared hikers is a must. Just my opinion.
WTH? I literally live down the mountain, and I haven't heard of any of these rescues! Usually these things are on the news. I guess I've missed them. On another note, I see people all the time out here not prepared for anything in the outdoors. So many people out here are blissfully ignorant of the dangers.
People always ask me, "why do you carry so much?" And the answer is, "because so many people carry nothing" and I can try to help if needed. I don't think I carry much, but it's definitely more than the average day hiker.
This is the reason why I follow you on TH-cam. You have been a God send with gear and information. Your still my go to guy for reviews and now info. KEEP’em coming when you can. They need to be informed SEMPER FI
I used to hike a LOT near Atlanta - everything from the Byron Reese trail to the stone hut on the AT in North GA to state parks all over the northern half of the state. I had to help people at Sweetwater Creek State park more than once, and one that comes to mind is the White trail, which is a 5 mile loop. That's right, keep going forward, you end up back at the parking lot. Turn around and go back? You end up at the parking lot. Well marked, easy-to-see, two hour trail. I ran into people with 'walk around the house' flip-flops, no water on a 98 degree day in GEORGIA, and they were panicking because they thought they were lost, on a tiny little 5 mile loop.
I believe over the years of hiking I've witnessed a gradual lack of training on hikes, less scouting less learning and an increase in people who take to trails with the thought that if something goes wrong I'll just call 911, it's really annoying to people who prepare and spend hours and weeks preparing, ive seen this issue more and more, for the continued love🥾🥾🥾
Every time they have tried to charge for emergency services, people die. They know they can’t pay so they don’t call for help. If your home caught fire the fire department doesn’t give you a bill do they?! Emergency rescues should be tax payer funded. One person can’t afford what it costs.
Great video - thank you for doing these. Years ago I was backpacking out West, got over a ridge into high country, and realized that I didn't have a) the proper gear and b) the proper skills. I spent one night in the high country, and then turned around and headed back to lower/safer trails. I didn't want to put anyone at risk, including me and the SAR teams out there. It's important to be prepared with the proper gear, to have the appropriate skill set for that particular adventure, and be confident to call your own number when you're in over your head. I had a great trip and I made it home safe and sound.
God point. People need to know their limits, would eliminate a lot of s.a.r., not referring to a real accident. Certain people watch videos of experianced hikers and think they can do it. I have watched videos and see them do stupid things time and time again.
An all too common problem here in NH in the White Mountains with rescue services needed. Some of the most severe weather in the world and people don't take it seriously.
I hope you're never on a SAR team then. No matter what I think of a lost or injured subject's intelligence or sense, I will do my best to assist, because I happen to value human life.
You hit the nail on the head. Too many people nowadays have no critical thinking skill or "common sense". Luckily, back in the day when I was working parks, we didn't have as many incidents. The dangers were always there, but usually drinking or too busy having fun and not thinking we're the culprits and not as many novices would get into the back country. I can remember one Ranger talking about overhearing a conversation between a urbanite father talking with his young child. Plenty of signage to keep clear and not feed or take pictures close to the wildlife. Child informs dad to stay back and need the warning signs. Father says there is no way the federal government would have dangerous animals in the parks because they would be sued. Another was a woman that was hiking up to a local mountain top and the weather turned bad. This was in the early days of cell phones, but she was able to get search and rescue. The chopper located and extracted her, but at some point she was able to see how close she was to the top and asked to be put back to complete the hike. She was told no, that they were there for a rescue and that's not proper protocol. She demanded to be put back or she would sue...needless to say she didn't get her way. I've noticed we seem to have more of these types over the years and technology has been a double-edged sword, bringing more people to remote areas. Please get the proper training and gear and do your research before you go "out there"; things still happen, but you minimize the dangers when follow the six P's (you could add a seventh, but I cleaned it up), prior proper preparation prevents poor performance. There are more, but I'm sure you get the drift. Be safe and may the peace of Jesus Christ be with you and your families and have a Merry Christmas.
You said they don't consider putting others at risk, some people don't even consider others at the supermarket when they leave their cart against my car door when the cart return is only one space away, people just don't care about others. You hit a nerve! I am so tired of the arrogance and ignorance, I would never do such things.
I live up in the New York Adirondack mountains and I find people hiking the peaks totally unprepared. Most of the time underdressed and under equipped. I believe that those people should pay for their rescue.
Are rescue is not training... no matter how silly the origin of the crescent. It's an actual event, with both victim and rescuers at risk. Training takes place in environments of controlled risk
The state of Oregon has a law allowing lost or injured hikers to be charged the cost of the rescue. This is rarely if ever used though as the responsibe rescue organizations don't want people choosing not to call for help over the fear of the cost.
I always go on trips alone with my dog, and I will ALWAYS prepare for the worst scenario. I take preparation seriously. I go on a few day hikes a year with other people, and it is amazing how unprepared some people are in a case where an accident is very possible. People make fun of me about me being paranoid, etc when they see what I take with me even on a dayhike. If I am going anywhere where there is a remote chance of me being stuck, I will at the very least have an emergency shelter of some sort, multiple ways to make fire, and contain, purify/filter water. Variables are something I will always think about, and my life, as well as my dog's life is highly valuable to me. I think it is idiotic to not take in consideration the worst case scenario when going out into nature. I see so many people putting their lives, friend's lives, and pet's lives at risk when they go out into the woods, and it aggravates me.
The mountains and the weather are never your friend. This is always a challenge, and not one to be taken lightly. You can watch a lot of youtube videos and read a lot of forum posts about how to do this well, light, prepared, and comfortable, but nothing will prepare you more than experience. Pack prepared for your first few trips and learn. After that, don't get overconfident. And train your mind and body for the challenges. I have never heard of anybody underpacking their lungs and legs. Sometimes 5 oz makes a difference in pack, but no ounces in knowledge and experience makes a much bigger difference. Hike safe, and Hike well, fellow travelers. . .
Everything Luke is saying is accurate...and it all goes back to this: failure to properly plan on your part doesn't justify an emergency on someone else's. We all know accidents will happen...but if you have the training and experience you can minimize the damage. If you don't, you shouldn't take the risk.
Hey Luke, it's crazy that person wore crocks hiking. Some people just don't get it. They think they are invincible. I know some people said they were going to go camping next year. I told them to watch your channel and get the correct info before they go. They said they watched and are grateful because they got the info they needed and will continue to watch. They liked and subscribed to your channel. Thank you.❤ Ms Ann 🙏🏽 hello sweet Susie 🌹
Stuff like this is exactly why I and a friend/ associate are writing a book/ planner for people to use to properly prepare for trips out into the wild. Thanks for the news bud, happy holidays and happy new year!
A few months ago I read 'Deep Survival' by L Gonzales. Facinating book, but one account jogged my mind when I watched this clip- the author, with his girlfriend went on a short day hike (Utah? I think?) Scheduled to be an hour walk, then back to the resort hotel. The weather changed rapidly, they got disoriented and started shivering. It ended well ( he finished and published the book obviously!) but he spanked himself for making wrong decicions that he KNEW better to make...but in the moment, he had an incident of (his words) stupidity. Great post...and even veteran outdoor people can hava a stupid day.
First, Merry Christmas to you and yours! Second, I'm a veteran SAR volunteer, worked Haywood and Buncombe counties, back in the 70's, most of us as initial responders were, and some still are volunteers. Personally, accidents happen, and I don't mind helping those folks. But the amount of what I will only label as "stupid human tricks" seem to be happening more and more. And I'm of the opinion the only sign that should be posted at trailheads everywhere, If you are not properly prepared for this trail, you will be required to pay reimbursement for any and all expenses to drag your stupid body out. Now enjoy your adventure!"😊
And a heartfelt thank you! For not just the testing that you do, but for these reports you put out as well. I must admit that I am living vicariously through your adventures as I just can't go and do any more.
Exactly the kind of thing that scares me about my lady. She wants to go camping and hiking. But she wears flip flops and either yoga pants or dresses. Doesn't use a backpack, or even want to learn how to use a folding knife. Doesn't own a belt for a fixed blade. I end up packing muling and doing everything. Becomes work instead of a good day out in the wild.
Merry Christmas to you, Luke. And to all the YT viewers. May the coming year find you on the trail, safely that is. I suppose it all boils down to the old saying, which is, "A person MUST know their limitations. "
I live near there and have a friend on LVMPD S & R. He was telling me about all of those rescues. The ones that weren't prepared, I just rolled my eyes.
I just wore my crocs out to the chicken house Minnesota and they are great camping and canoeing but some people don’t have common sense and I shouldn’t have to pay for their stupidity. Death is to remind others our bodies are temporary .
Taxpayer's pay? Like to see proof. Taxpayer's occasionally pay for SAR-teams to be on standby for natural or other emergencies. And SAR-teams often relish the opportunity to practice by rescuing hikers. Garmin has a whole insurance system on rescuing travelers. But dedicated, direct taxpayer paying? Don't think so. Dixie got rescued. Hundreds get rescued every year. Several attempt the continental trails without any-shoes-at-all each year. There's a better solution than whipping everyone into a taxpayer-outrage frenzy. Don't pay. There's no law forcing government's to pay. Pay or don't pay, but don't stoke pitchfork mobs. Especially to make trails less inviting and less safe. And especially not just to virtue-signal (looking at you, Luke).
I believe the point of this video was , yes , cost is a thing , but that aside , one area has a concentration of these incidents and it sucks that this area could be shut down potentially if that's the best solution. As far as Garmin , I haven't personally researched these particular incidents and couldn't tell you if this was a Garmin insurance thing or if they just dialed 911.
@@davidgaines8607 - It's a free country. People forget that when they start becoming self-righteous and overbearing (still looking at you, Luke). Free to get yourself in trouble and free to help others as one sees fit. What's not encouraged in a free country is making up excuses to close publicly-owned lands. Monied and foreign interests want nothing more than to control US public lands and politician's want nothing more than kickbacks for giving it to them. It's incumbent on the citizenry to remember the principles of "Equal-Individual-Freedom" if we are to retain our lands and our freedoms. Want to hike without shoes? More power to you. Want to threaten closing public lands because you are the big gear expert? No better than a virtue-signaling Leftist.
Of course the tax payers pays. These SAR team are not all volunteers. The helicopter pilot is not a volunteer. The helicopter itself was not donated. There is no free lunch.
@davidgaines8607 - It's a free country. People forget that when they start becoming self-righteous and overbearing (still looking at you, Luke). Free to get yourself in trouble and free to help others as one sees fit. What's not encouraged in a free country is making up excuses to close publicly-owned lands. Monied and foreign interests want nothing more than to control US public lands and politician's want nothing more than kickbacks for giving it to them. It's incumbent on the citizenry to remember the principles of "Equal-Individual-Freedom" if we are to retain our lands and our freedoms. Want to hike without shoes? More power to you. Want to threaten closing public lands because you are the big gear expert? No better than the land-thieves themselves.
Every year, I do the same snow hike. It's an icy set of switchbacks along a strip drop, then a wayfinding through thick snow to an alpine lake with avalanche danger on the far side. Every year, I see people ill prepared in tennis shoes and no packs heading up from the parking lot. The signage is clear. It amazes me that people always forget that the mountains in the winter are very dangerous
Sept, 2021 I was at Lower Boy Scout Lake (10,350 ft). Next day , hike up to Upper Boy Scout Lake (11,350). Got a weather report (Garmin In Reach), snow possible at that elevation. Getting there the path is a lot of slab granite. If I needed to abort, I did not want to be walking downhill on granite with frozen water or snow. I went back to my car. I was 77 then .
Merry Christmas, Susan and Luke! My opinion follows: You need to be rescued? You need to be held financially responsible - PREPAID! You can't expect taxpayers to pay for your misfortune/unpreparedness/stupidity! This from a former hiker/camper/outdoorsman in Alaska and the northern tier States.
In New Hampshire if u are not prepared u get fined $1,500 if u are prepared and it's a accident u don't get fined. Also in New Hampshire it's smart to get a Hike Safe Card that helps support the numerous Mountain Rescue groups in the state which many are volunteers
Accidents happen, worse when they happen to untrained, unknowing people. Your reports are very good, so that people become aware that these adventures are not like going for a walk around the corner square (which also has its risks). Merry Christmas, in 2025 we will continue together in your adventures. 🇺🇾
Thanks for sharing. I live in Las Vegas, and the number of times that I see people that are not equipped or ready to go on hikes out here I cannot count. I know that I overprepare by the views of some, but I would rather have it and not need it compared to the other way around. I grew up with the 10 essentials as a framework, and I stick to it. From experience I have learned to carry extra water when it is hot, and to carry extra ski caps when it is cold. I felt horrible for these French girls that were visiting once without being prepared. I happened to have a spare set of gloves that I was able to give them, and I made sure they got back to their car. I think people don't take hiking in the Las Vegas area seriously, however, I have seen the same recklessness in Yosemite and Zion. I think people assume that if they are on a trail, that it is safe, and that equipment is not necessary. In our current culture it may not be a bad idea to have trails have ratings of difficulty and danger at the trail heads. Of course, as I used to stress to people when going out bouldering or climbing, you can break your ankle from falling a foot if you land wrong.
Hiking for over 20 years myself = what stupidity you should do to mess up like this? Expensive gear it not a must. Start early, inform your relatives, get a small emergency pack.
I live in Mexico, this is a problem here too, people is sometimes very irresponsible while visiting some of our mountains, they just don't take things serously, and rescue teams have to work for that. I like to hike alone sometimes, but i do take my precautions and try to be as safe as i can, never had a problem or got lost.
As far as the pay goes. Those officers are already getting paid to be at work. So is okay that they have to work for it? If you're in a car accident, should you pay the bill for the responding emergency teams? If you robbed at knife point, is it your fault for not having a gun? If your house catches on fire because of your stupid mistake, should you pay the fire department? My point is this, folks...... WE all unfortunately pay a lot of taxes for these services, and the people who do the job are already getting paid. For Luke or anyone to say or suggest that the victim be TAXED for the need of a public service is INCREDIBLY STUPID AF. We pay enough. NOW should a SAR person happen to see a person who was so under prepared that he wants to tell him/her how stupid they are or if in RARE cases of extreme neglect and dangerous actions that they charge them with a crime then ok. Luke I'm disappointed in this suggestion buddy
@robertl6196 true however they VOLUNTEERED, so should they be paid? No, not in my opinion but everyone is entitled to their opinions as well. The ones he is talking about are paid, public servants. I'm one that believes our government works for US, WE pay them. So no extra money for doing your job
@@TT-mf5njexactly. But I say the same for volunteers, since in fact volunteered and trained just to do this job.... And of course mentioned in every single social media post that they have to try and gain clout😂
Having been involved in some SAR, baring serious injuries (which, when looked into deeper, involved poor decisions), not being prepared was the contributing factor to the people being in the situation they were in. And not being prepared does not just have to me poorly equipped, but also: not knowing the area; weather patterns, wildlife, water features, lack of water, etc. Love seeing these types of videos.
Oh ya Luke, glad to see you bringing this information to your channel, we all value your opinion on the products your bring to us, and that’s why we are here, but to use your platform as a way to say be aware of the situations you could unintentionally or intentionally put yourself in and offer an opportunity for us consider how well we prepare ourselves, this is a public service announcement that should be stated occasionally, thanks so much !! Good job, Merry Christmas to you n your family !!
Great episode. Perhaps the signage at the beginning of these trails could have a warning that gives a list of specific gear recommended for that trail. The sign could give fair warning that if you have to be rescued and you did not have the proper gear that you will have to pay the cost for the rescue. Thanks for the video!
I worked with the Forest Service for almost 16 years patrolling the AT , the Lincoln Woods Wilderness Area and several other popular climbing & hiking areas in NH I've defiantly seen more unprepared people venturing out than I can count , not only gear wise , but experience wise. I was a SOLO Wilderness First Responder , High Angle Rescue certified and rescues / recoveries weren't all that an uncommon and a big part of my duties , Winter or Summer. We'd probably have 20ish extractions , several search & rescues, and sadly 8-10 recoveries a Summer and more minor injury responses were a daily occurrence in some of the more well used areas, normally used by the more inexperienced visitors . Sprains , strains, bigger boo-boo's , blisters , dehydration , heat stroke /exhaustion, ect . The usual stuff. So plan according to when & where your going, be in shape to do so and have the right gear and learn the woods well before venturing to far. All the best from the High Mountain Homestead and have a Blessed Christmas and New Year,,,,,
We have this discussion all the time here in BC, volunteer SAR teams spend a lot of time and effort rescuing people who go off trail or who just unprepared. Wheeled off road travelers are equally showing up unprepared. I ran into a young who had blown the diff on thier jeep, both wearing t-shirt, shorts and flip flops with nothing else to put on. They were just out for the day was their reasoning. Where they were was a rough rocky forest service road, About 4 km (2.5 - 3 miles) from the main, and fairly steep up and downs. There is no cell phone service and they literally had no clue where exactly they were other than off the West Harrison Lake FSR. It was late it the day when I found them, purely by accident I was looking for a bypass route around a failed bridge. It was cooling off and they had been there for a couple hours hoping someone would come along, on a tiny off the side of the side road track. No food no water. Just nuts.
@4:39.......crocs...okay I'm not an outdoors guy and that makes my head hurt from reading that. . granted they were young, but...whyyyyy? even if I were an outdoor guy. I STILL wouldn't wear crocs to hike up a friggin mountain...or do anything else for that matter since I hate the damn things.
Luke I live in one of the great lakes state, people love to ice fish which is fine and dandy but like to wander close to open water the lake has a shipping channel during the warmer weather so it has strong currents and on windy days the ice will break away and strand fisherman, the coast guard helicopter is needed to rescue them only to turn around and head back back out and you guessed it, rescued again on the same day..these were personal friends of mine, the coast guard was threatening to start changing then.
One thing I have come to realize is this: I would NOT be a candidate for winter camping or winter hiking. The main reason being is that the fabrics in winter clothing I am mostly allergic to--and have hypersenitivities to manmade fabrics and synthetics. Specifically polyester and anything with latex, in it. Also wool is a problem, and anything with fur is problem. I get giant dinner plate sized hives wearing this stuff, breathing problems, rashes, and body swelling! I wind up needing epi pen injections, high amounts of Benedryl and Hydroxyzine to combat symptoms. About the ONLY fabric my body will tolerate is 100 percent cotton and rayon fabrics. That is basically it. All of my clothing, sheets, towels, sweaters, coats, underwear, pants, shirts, sweat shirts, everything I wear or sleep on is made of 100 percent cotton--including my socks. I do not wear traditional shoes either. So, it would be impossible for me to function in cold weater. NO possible. I wind up wearing plastic sandles in the snow if and when it ever snows here. (Gresham Oregon) I tried some polyester furry filled clogs--but they kill my feet. I have very hot feet--and often have very warm feet even in snow wearing socks and open toes plastic sandals as long as my feet stay dry. Yes, I live in Oregon--the rainy state. I do okay. I do love snow. I would stick to summer camping and summer hiking because of my problem with allergies and fabrics. I also believe that if people are not prepared on purpose, and get hurt as a result of this unpreparedness, and have no locator beacon, that they should be forced to insure themselves for expenses if they need to be rescued, that or pay fully for expenses.
Accidents do happen like you say, but those who are just not prepared or too lazy to take precautions may take away from someone who does truly need help. People don't think of others in that scenario. Sad what our world has come to!
The problem with people going to Mt Charleston is they leave the desert floor where it's in the high 70's to mid 80's around Thanksgiving. The official elevation of Las Vegas is 2,651 ft above sea level. Mt Charleston at its highest point is another 7,000 feet higher. Temperatures up there can be in the 40's in July and August. Much colder at Thanksgiving. There's a ski and snowboard resort up there and I've seen leftover snow in July.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Luke and your family. Thank you for the excellent news and reviews you have given over the years. I found this very interesting since I used to live in Las Vegas (1980-1992) and have hiked Mount Charleston several times, including once in the winter. It can be dangerous up there, regardless of the season. But in the winter, it can be exceptionally dangerous.
I live in The White Mountains of New Hampshire......... Every year some one Dies !!!!.....Every year there are Senseless intense Rescues for people who dont THINK before Hiking into the wilderness and bring nothing but a cellphone , bottle of water and a granola bar !!!..(Cant Fix Stupid)..... it can be 40* at the base and when you break the tree line all of the sudden a blizzard can blow in with wind chills well below zero and nowhere for shelter !!!!........... again people die here that didnt have to ..... maybe people would be more prepared if cellphones didnt work in the wilderness and YES they have to pay for the rescue !!!..... and fined too!! for failure to carry the proper gear and reckless endangerment of rescue personnel ...... and as Retired Flight Paramedic ...Air Rescues are not CHEAP !!!...at a minimum it costs 2500.00 Plus to lift off the pad and just get to you !!
Very informative video. I've been solo backpacking since I was 17 (now 68) and never had an issue because I was properly trained in Boy Scouts to be prepared. I was fortunate to have been in a scout troop that was heavily involved in backpacking and even took some survival training. I always tell someone reliable what my itinerary is so they know who to contact if I don't check in. Proper gear is essential. I've had to abort trips because of severe weather changes or because I was feeling ill. Don't let your pride over rule common sense since it could save your life. Search and rescue teams are awesome. Where I live in southern California they are always rescuing people and 90% of the time it is because they are ill prepared. I believe that if someone is irresponsible then they should pay the costs of being rescued.
Never done any winter hikes. I'm not mentally prepared or have gear for ice. I only do three season backpacking. It's reckless to go into the wilderness unprepared. Those people that seem to be severely unprepared or careless about their trip should pay the fee if something happens to them.
Luke, Great information. I am glad that you are doing outdoor news videos. A couple of years ago, I thought about doing some outdoor news content, but had to table it. Great to see that "great minds, think alike." LOL. Hopefully, this year I can get my video editing suite upgraded to Apple, so I can start putting up long-form videos again. Keep up the great work, enjoy your videos very much! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Real life events of rescue are far better than practice. In many cases of just practice only one is not challenged mentally or physically. Rescuers should be paid very good for this job or do something else.
This stuff is wild. I would love to have a system where the unprepared are forced to pay for their rescues. But it seems like it would be really difficult to determine what is prepared vs unprepared. Where is the line drawn? There are so many variables and factors at play for any given trail on any given day. I don't know, I don't have a good answer. I guess better signage is a good first step. Unfortunately, I think this type of stuff will just lead to more hoops to jump through and more restrictions for regular, common sense, hikers and campers. Permits, fees, trail closures, insurance requirements, etc. are all things I could see becoming more prevalent because of this type of this stuff.
I have made numerous observations in regard to this matter, either hikers going out alone in desolate areas where if they are injured are unlikely to see another hiker for hours or days, or the casual outdoor types that have little to no skills/ experience and have given no thought to assessing their limits. The responses I get are usually those making excuses for them, apparently using some judgment and acknowledging your limits is " offensive ". We're living in a time when self satisfaction has become the order of the day, and anyone who dares to question poor judgment is an oppressor. That valuable resources are expended, at some risk to the rescuers, is of no consequence to these folks. Apparently, it's all about them and what they want, everyone else be damned.
Merry Christmas to everyone. If the people are well prepared but need rescue due to an out of control incident, then they shouldn't have to pay. We all pay taxes for these situations. Think of fire, vehicle accidents etc. However, just like a DUI, if the accident is due to negligence or avoidable stupidity, then they should have to pay a reasonable fine and get points in the system; too many points and then they have to pay the whole cost of the rescue.
We lived in Las Vegas for 17 yrs. We camped and hiked up on Mt. Charleston over the years. I grew up in So Cal and raised by a Marine. Thankfully Dad taught us how to camp cold and camp hot. In all my years we never had any issues. However, I understand the foolishness of ppl in Vegas. They think bc they live in the desert that the mountains are " no big deal."
Depends. If you're equipped properly, it's an accident. If you're hiking with improper gear, it's an active of willful stupidity. ALSO, trails should be properly maintained. I've hiked, properly equipped in many places where poor trail conditions led me to turn back.
Every year in Poland we have few "special" tourist trying to go on top of our mountains in winter with only lest say beach clothing or hi hells and hiking ..
So my comment kind of barely skirts this situation but it fits the situation in a larger sense. I would like to suggest everybody pack with them a high visibility vest it can be easier to find you if you are separated from your group or from your gear if you're wearing the vest you're much more visible. Folded up the vest is smaller than a sandwich. I also would advise if you can get a small tarp and either orange or green of the high visibility range get it and keep it with your stuff that you must keep with you at all times. If you're lost you'll have a big flag to wave hopefully you'll be found by your tarp with your hi-vis vest on.
There is a very fine line between accident and recklessness. There are some cases where people go out completely unprepared and others cases where people thought they were pretty prepared but conditions changed and things went wrong. Not to say nobody should be held accountable and pay for their own rescue. I just don't want to be the one who has to draw the line.
What a lot of people don't know is that trail conditions and especially weather can change in an instant. I've gone camping and weather service called for clear sky's. Yeah no, straight blizzard rolled over me, luckily I was prepared. Always bring supplies so your ready for worst case scenario. Mother nature does not play around😂
Well not to be mean, but as a 52 year old camper and hunter in the Catskills mountains of NY, I'm not surprised since people are just very lazy and just have no clue about anything anymore! This news is worse than the people that just role outta bed in their pajamas and slippers,and decide to go shopping! Rediculous!!🙄🙄🙄
Interesting discussion. In the pyrenees and alps they have implemented huge fines if you need to be rescued with helicopter etc. Especially Spain & Italy are sick and tired of unprepared "hikers" that end up missing/lost. We are talking about thousands of euros in fines. I myself have run into "lost hikers" in the pyrenees screaming for help - while I had the time of my life. Having the right equipment I had to waste half a day leading the group to the nearest village where they could get help with their frostbites, hypothermia, dehydration, cuts and bruises. I might sound harsh - but people need to stop thinking that going into remote mountainous areas are like a trip to disney world. Nature is unforgiving and will snuff you out in a second if you are not prepared .
"Think about how dumb the average person is and then realize that half of 'em are stupider than that" - George Carlin
classic.
Merry Christmas! I literally just broke my ankle in 2 places while on a backpacking trip 2 days ago. I was solo and crossing a creek. I got across just fine, it was the second creek crossing and the first went just fine, but when I went to take a step up to get out of the water somehow I slipped and fell breaking my right ankle. I was able to bandage and somewhat stableize the ankle and get myself out of the forest and call for help. I did have to leave my pack behind but a ranger did get it for me without me even asking. The EMTs were very happy to not have to go into the woods to get me and that I already had myself bandaged up and when we got to the ER they were telling others about how I self rescued. I was fortunate that I was able to do it and I’m not sure how I managed except that I did do my best to be prepared and that the Lord was with me.
A true accident shouldnt be charged. Those that aren’t prepared and do stupid things should be charged
Simple as that.
"A Hiker wore Crocs Up a Mountain in Winter and Sparked A Rescue Mission"..... ............. ouch.... that just makes my head hurt..... it gives me a brain cramp.
Thank you for passing along.
Too many of these stories end tragically because the individuals were untrained, ill-prepared and “just going on a day hike”.
I’ve been in search and rescue since 2018. The vast majority of SAR personnel oppose charging people for rescues. The reason being that if a person knows they will be charged they will wait longer to ask for help. The risks to SAR personnel increase when it’s dark or there is inclement weather. We want people to call for help as soon as they need help. Not to wait until it’s dark and sleeting and we can’t launch a chopper and people have to hike in. It increases odds of injury or death to SAR personnel and decreases survival odds of the subject being rescued.
Are you guys on call being paid rescue or not?
@@MarkJones-sk6vk We are volunteers, but we work with paid rescuers (Army, Airforce PJ's, State Troopers). Volunteers make up the bulk of rescue work in my state. The Troopers, Army and PJ's only come out for life, limb or eyesight basically. Volunteers do the rest of it, and most body recoveries outside the city.
You make a valid point, yet I would submit that if hikers/ backpackers/ trail runners were held accountable for their decisions you would likely see fewer calls for service. I would suggest that those going into the wilderness areas provide a cash deposit, refundable upon leaving the area. No accountability is a large part of the problem.
I was going to say the same thing. SAR member since 2012, and I've seen lots of stupid things that did not turn out to be body recoveries only because the subjects called for help in time. Fear of getting charged for rescue will only lead to delays and unnecessary deaths. I don't know what the best solution is, but I cannot endorse charging for rescue. And, to the question asked by Mark, I'm on a strictly volunteer team.
Thanks for the info. I was non-rated crew on army helicopters many yrs ago. Helping ppl in need was the best part of the job.
These “News Stories” are extremely valuable - especially if you include a good bit of the details. It gives us an opportunity critique what someone did right as well as what they did wrong. Approached with a desire to learn, and improve, much can be gleaned from mistakes and successes. Keep them coming Luke. They can provide a great benefit to the outdoor community!
Having been on a SAR team for eleven years in MI, I appreciate you putting this information out. Also, FYI, my team was a volunteer organization as part of the emergency services department of the local PD.
As a avid hiker/peakbagger for my entire adult life(45+ years) you wouldn't believe the things I've seen on trail. Actually seen the Crocs/sandals in winter conditions numerous times myself. Seen a young man on Humphreys Peak in deep snow on Memorial Day in a pair of pool flip flops. Several years ago on Mt. Wrightson...an elderly man froze to death. He had on shorts and a grey hoodie. I had full winter survival gear and didn't leave the trailhead and advised him to do so as well...came back two days later to find out he was missing and presumed dead. And this might cause some comments but trail runners that go out with minimal to no gear are setting themselves up for disaster. I'm amazed that more people don't die frankly. I truly believe permits and a ranger presence at trailheads to turn back ill prepared hikers is a must. Just my opinion.
They do this at the ranger station check in when climbing Katahdin.
Merry Christmas to you and your family...I like the news stories, keep them coming.
WTH? I literally live down the mountain, and I haven't heard of any of these rescues! Usually these things are on the news. I guess I've missed them. On another note, I see people all the time out here not prepared for anything in the outdoors. So many people out here are blissfully ignorant of the dangers.
No he's looking for things to complain about
People always ask me, "why do you carry so much?" And the answer is, "because so many people carry nothing" and I can try to help if needed. I don't think I carry much, but it's definitely more than the average day hiker.
This is the reason why I follow you on TH-cam. You have been a God send with gear and information. Your still my go to guy for reviews and now info. KEEP’em coming when you can. They need to be informed
SEMPER FI
I used to hike a LOT near Atlanta - everything from the Byron Reese trail to the stone hut on the AT in North GA to state parks all over the northern half of the state. I had to help people at Sweetwater Creek State park more than once, and one that comes to mind is the White trail, which is a 5 mile loop. That's right, keep going forward, you end up back at the parking lot. Turn around and go back? You end up at the parking lot. Well marked, easy-to-see, two hour trail. I ran into people with 'walk around the house' flip-flops, no water on a 98 degree day in GEORGIA, and they were panicking because they thought they were lost, on a tiny little 5 mile loop.
I believe over the years of hiking I've witnessed a gradual lack of training on hikes, less scouting less learning and an increase in people who take to trails with the thought that if something goes wrong I'll just call 911, it's really annoying to people who prepare and spend hours and weeks preparing, ive seen this issue more and more, for the continued love🥾🥾🥾
Every time they have tried to charge for emergency services, people die. They know they can’t pay so they don’t call for help. If your home caught fire the fire department doesn’t give you a bill do they?! Emergency rescues should be tax payer funded. One person can’t afford what it costs.
I live close to Rocky Mountain national Park. So many tourists coming to hike in Crocs and flipflops! Job security for a local hospital ER
Great video - thank you for doing these. Years ago I was backpacking out West, got over a ridge into high country, and realized that I didn't have a) the proper gear and b) the proper skills. I spent one night in the high country, and then turned around and headed back to lower/safer trails. I didn't want to put anyone at risk, including me and the SAR teams out there. It's important to be prepared with the proper gear, to have the appropriate skill set for that particular adventure, and be confident to call your own number when you're in over your head. I had a great trip and I made it home safe and sound.
God point. People need to know their limits, would eliminate a lot of s.a.r., not referring to a real accident. Certain people watch videos of experianced hikers and think they can do it. I have watched videos and see them do stupid things time and time again.
I like the fact that he is wearing at least three layers during this talk. Possibly four if you count his hand protection.
100% Luke.....Of all the winter trail or campers I watch...I think you take your adventures very seriously...Cheers!
Coming soon, insurance will be necessary to enter the wilderness.
Don’t think so.
An all too common problem here in NH in the White Mountains with rescue services needed. Some of the most severe weather in the world and people don't take it seriously.
Keep publishing this kind of news.
Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada
Thank you Luke for sharing this.. Merry Christmas to you Susie and family.
I'm sorry, if I'm on a SAR team and I hear a hiker need assistance bc of wearing Crocs. I'm going back home, it's called thinning the heard of idiots.
I hope you're never on a SAR team then. No matter what I think of a lost or injured subject's intelligence or sense, I will do my best to assist, because I happen to value human life.
You hit the nail on the head. Too many people nowadays have no critical thinking skill or "common sense". Luckily, back in the day when I was working parks, we didn't have as many incidents. The dangers were always there, but usually drinking or too busy having fun and not thinking we're the culprits and not as many novices would get into the back country. I can remember one Ranger talking about overhearing a conversation between a urbanite father talking with his young child. Plenty of signage to keep clear and not feed or take pictures close to the wildlife. Child informs dad to stay back and need the warning signs. Father says there is no way the federal government would have dangerous animals in the parks because they would be sued. Another was a woman that was hiking up to a local mountain top and the weather turned bad. This was in the early days of cell phones, but she was able to get search and rescue. The chopper located and extracted her, but at some point she was able to see how close she was to the top and asked to be put back to complete the hike. She was told no, that they were there for a rescue and that's not proper protocol. She demanded to be put back or she would sue...needless to say she didn't get her way. I've noticed we seem to have more of these types over the years and technology has been a double-edged sword, bringing more people to remote areas. Please get the proper training and gear and do your research before you go "out there"; things still happen, but you minimize the dangers when follow the six P's (you could add a seventh, but I cleaned it up), prior proper preparation prevents poor performance. There are more, but I'm sure you get the drift. Be safe and may the peace of Jesus Christ be with you and your families and have a Merry Christmas.
You said they don't consider putting others at risk, some people don't even consider others at the supermarket when they leave their cart against my car door when the cart return is only one space away, people just don't care about others. You hit a nerve! I am so tired of the arrogance and ignorance, I would never do such things.
Agree 100%! See it all the time. Don't think that they're ignorant, they just don't give a rats "butt".
Thats why some have goodness in their heart beloved...if no one cared..where would we be...thank you
I live up in the New York Adirondack mountains and I find people hiking the peaks totally unprepared. Most of the time underdressed and under equipped. I believe that those people should pay for their rescue.
On the positive side, these real rescues provide REAL training episodes for the SAR teams.
I say the people that are not prepared to hit a trail like that. They need to pay the bill, put an other people's lives in jeopardy😅
Are rescue is not training... no matter how silly the origin of the crescent. It's an actual event, with both victim and rescuers at risk. Training takes place in environments of controlled risk
The state of Oregon has a law allowing lost or injured hikers to be charged the cost of the rescue. This is rarely if ever used though as the responsibe rescue organizations don't want people choosing not to call for help over the fear of the cost.
Pass on the fees of saving their lives to the individual(s) who have not used common sense. Always have a Plan B!
I always go on trips alone with my dog, and I will ALWAYS prepare for the worst scenario. I take preparation seriously. I go on a few day hikes a year with other people, and it is amazing how unprepared some people are in a case where an accident is very possible. People make fun of me about me being paranoid, etc when they see what I take with me even on a dayhike. If I am going anywhere where there is a remote chance of me being stuck, I will at the very least have an emergency shelter of some sort, multiple ways to make fire, and contain, purify/filter water. Variables are something I will always think about, and my life, as well as my dog's life is highly valuable to me. I think it is idiotic to not take in consideration the worst case scenario when going out into nature. I see so many people putting their lives, friend's lives, and pet's lives at risk when they go out into the woods, and it aggravates me.
The mountains and the weather are never your friend.
This is always a challenge, and not one to be taken lightly.
You can watch a lot of youtube videos and read a lot of forum posts about how to do this well, light, prepared, and comfortable, but nothing will prepare you more than experience.
Pack prepared for your first few trips and learn. After that, don't get overconfident. And train your mind and body for the challenges.
I have never heard of anybody underpacking their lungs and legs.
Sometimes 5 oz makes a difference in pack, but no ounces in knowledge and experience makes a much bigger difference.
Hike safe, and Hike well, fellow travelers. . .
Everything Luke is saying is accurate...and it all goes back to this: failure to properly plan on your part doesn't justify an emergency on someone else's. We all know accidents will happen...but if you have the training and experience you can minimize the damage. If you don't, you shouldn't take the risk.
Hey Luke, it's crazy that person wore crocks hiking. Some people just don't get it. They think they are invincible. I know some people said they were going to go camping next year. I told them to watch your channel and get the correct info before they go. They said they watched and are grateful because they got the info they needed and will continue to watch. They liked and subscribed to your channel. Thank you.❤ Ms Ann 🙏🏽 hello sweet Susie 🌹
Stuff like this is exactly why I and a friend/ associate are writing a book/ planner for people to use to properly prepare for trips out into the wild. Thanks for the news bud, happy holidays and happy new year!
A few months ago I read 'Deep Survival' by L Gonzales. Facinating book, but one account jogged my mind when I watched this clip- the author, with his girlfriend went on a short day hike (Utah? I think?) Scheduled to be an hour walk, then back to the resort hotel. The weather changed rapidly, they got disoriented and started shivering. It ended well ( he finished and published the book obviously!) but he spanked himself for making wrong decicions that he KNEW better to make...but in the moment, he had an incident of (his words) stupidity. Great post...and even veteran outdoor people can hava a stupid day.
First, Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Second, I'm a veteran SAR volunteer, worked Haywood and Buncombe counties, back in the 70's, most of us as initial responders were, and some still are volunteers. Personally, accidents happen, and I don't mind helping those folks. But the amount of what I will only label as "stupid human tricks" seem to be happening more and more. And I'm of the opinion the only sign that should be posted at trailheads everywhere, If you are not properly prepared for this trail, you will be required to pay reimbursement for any and all expenses to drag your stupid body out. Now enjoy your adventure!"😊
And a heartfelt thank you! For not just the testing that you do, but for these reports you put out as well. I must admit that I am living vicariously through your adventures as I just can't go and do any more.
Make them pay the full costs
Exactly the kind of thing that scares me about my lady. She wants to go camping and hiking. But she wears flip flops and either yoga pants or dresses. Doesn't use a backpack, or even want to learn how to use a folding knife. Doesn't own a belt for a fixed blade.
I end up packing muling and doing everything. Becomes work instead of a good day out in the wild.
Damn...
@@buckleymordecai9605 Find another lady before she ends up injuring herself or you through her laziness
Uh I would stop that lol if she doesn't want learn than she's not that interested in the hobby lol
Thank you.
Merry Christmas to you, Luke. And to all the YT viewers. May the coming year find you on the trail, safely that is. I suppose it all boils down to the old saying, which is, "A person MUST know their limitations. "
I live near there and have a friend on LVMPD S & R. He was telling me about all of those rescues. The ones that weren't prepared, I just rolled my eyes.
😐
I just wore my crocs out to the chicken house Minnesota and they are great camping and canoeing but some people don’t have common sense and I shouldn’t have to pay for their stupidity. Death is to remind others our bodies are temporary .
Taxpayer's pay? Like to see proof. Taxpayer's occasionally pay for SAR-teams to be on standby for natural or other emergencies. And SAR-teams often relish the opportunity to practice by rescuing hikers. Garmin has a whole insurance system on rescuing travelers. But dedicated, direct taxpayer paying? Don't think so. Dixie got rescued. Hundreds get rescued every year. Several attempt the continental trails without any-shoes-at-all each year. There's a better solution than whipping everyone into a taxpayer-outrage frenzy. Don't pay. There's no law forcing government's to pay. Pay or don't pay, but don't stoke pitchfork mobs. Especially to make trails less inviting and less safe. And especially not just to virtue-signal (looking at you, Luke).
I believe the point of this video was , yes , cost is a thing , but that aside , one area has a concentration of these incidents and it sucks that this area could be shut down potentially if that's the best solution.
As far as Garmin , I haven't personally researched these particular incidents and couldn't tell you if this was a Garmin insurance thing or if they just dialed 911.
@@davidgaines8607 - It's a free country. People forget that when they start becoming self-righteous and overbearing (still looking at you, Luke). Free to get yourself in trouble and free to help others as one sees fit. What's not encouraged in a free country is making up excuses to close publicly-owned lands. Monied and foreign interests want nothing more than to control US public lands and politician's want nothing more than kickbacks for giving it to them. It's incumbent on the citizenry to remember the principles of "Equal-Individual-Freedom" if we are to retain our lands and our freedoms. Want to hike without shoes? More power to you. Want to threaten closing public lands because you are the big gear expert? No better than a virtue-signaling Leftist.
Of course the tax payers pays. These SAR team are not all volunteers. The helicopter pilot is not a volunteer. The helicopter itself was not donated. There is no free lunch.
@davidgaines8607 - It's a free country. People forget that when they start becoming self-righteous and overbearing (still looking at you, Luke). Free to get yourself in trouble and free to help others as one sees fit. What's not encouraged in a free country is making up excuses to close publicly-owned lands. Monied and foreign interests want nothing more than to control US public lands and politician's want nothing more than kickbacks for giving it to them. It's incumbent on the citizenry to remember the principles of "Equal-Individual-Freedom" if we are to retain our lands and our freedoms. Want to hike without shoes? More power to you. Want to threaten closing public lands because you are the big gear expert? No better than the land-thieves themselves.
@@tomnoyb8301 The issue is not closing the park. The issue is regular people paying for the rescue of these idiots. Its not fair.
Every year, I do the same snow hike. It's an icy set of switchbacks along a strip drop, then a wayfinding through thick snow to an alpine lake with avalanche danger on the far side. Every year, I see people ill prepared in tennis shoes and no packs heading up from the parking lot. The signage is clear. It amazes me that people always forget that the mountains in the winter are very dangerous
Merry Christmas to you and yours Luke and Susie
Sept, 2021 I was at Lower Boy Scout Lake (10,350 ft). Next day , hike up to Upper Boy Scout Lake (11,350). Got a weather report (Garmin In Reach), snow possible at that elevation. Getting there the path is a lot of slab granite. If I needed to abort, I did not want to be walking downhill on granite with frozen water or snow. I went back to my car. I was 77 then .
Merry Christmas Luke, best wishes to you and the family....
Merry Christmas, Susan and Luke!
My opinion follows: You need to be rescued? You need to be held financially responsible - PREPAID! You can't expect taxpayers to pay for your misfortune/unpreparedness/stupidity! This from a former hiker/camper/outdoorsman in Alaska and the northern tier States.
Yeah, I like the pre-payed idea. Interesting.
Happy & safe houldays.
Well done and informative. Thank you.
In New Hampshire if u are not prepared u get fined $1,500 if u are prepared and it's a accident u don't get fined. Also in New Hampshire it's smart to get a Hike Safe Card that helps support the numerous Mountain Rescue groups in the state which many are volunteers
Accidents happen, worse when they happen to untrained, unknowing people. Your reports are very good, so that people become aware that these adventures are not like going for a walk around the corner square (which also has its risks). Merry Christmas, in 2025 we will continue together in your adventures. 🇺🇾
Thanks for sharing. I live in Las Vegas, and the number of times that I see people that are not equipped or ready to go on hikes out here I cannot count. I know that I overprepare by the views of some, but I would rather have it and not need it compared to the other way around. I grew up with the 10 essentials as a framework, and I stick to it. From experience I have learned to carry extra water when it is hot, and to carry extra ski caps when it is cold. I felt horrible for these French girls that were visiting once without being prepared. I happened to have a spare set of gloves that I was able to give them, and I made sure they got back to their car. I think people don't take hiking in the Las Vegas area seriously, however, I have seen the same recklessness in Yosemite and Zion. I think people assume that if they are on a trail, that it is safe, and that equipment is not necessary. In our current culture it may not be a bad idea to have trails have ratings of difficulty and danger at the trail heads. Of course, as I used to stress to people when going out bouldering or climbing, you can break your ankle from falling a foot if you land wrong.
Hiking for over 20 years myself = what stupidity you should do to mess up like this? Expensive gear it not a must. Start early, inform your relatives, get a small emergency pack.
Wow, I had no idea they had such beautiful mountains by Vegas.
I live in Mexico, this is a problem here too, people is sometimes very irresponsible while visiting some of our mountains, they just don't take things serously, and rescue teams have to work for that.
I like to hike alone sometimes, but i do take my precautions and try to be as safe as i can, never had a problem or got lost.
Merry Christmas!
Thanks!
Thank you!
As far as the pay goes. Those officers are already getting paid to be at work. So is okay that they have to work for it? If you're in a car accident, should you pay the bill for the responding emergency teams? If you robbed at knife point, is it your fault for not having a gun? If your house catches on fire because of your stupid mistake, should you pay the fire department?
My point is this, folks...... WE all unfortunately pay a lot of taxes for these services, and the people who do the job are already getting paid. For Luke or anyone to say or suggest that the victim be TAXED for the need of a public service is INCREDIBLY STUPID AF. We pay enough.
NOW should a SAR person happen to see a person who was so under prepared that he wants to tell him/her how stupid they are or if in RARE cases of extreme neglect and dangerous actions that they charge them with a crime then ok.
Luke I'm disappointed in this suggestion buddy
I couldn't agree with you more. 👍
Many rescue teams are volunteer.
@robertl6196 true however they VOLUNTEERED, so should they be paid? No, not in my opinion but everyone is entitled to their opinions as well.
The ones he is talking about are paid, public servants.
I'm one that believes our government works for US, WE pay them. So no extra money for doing your job
@@TT-mf5njexactly. But I say the same for volunteers, since in fact volunteered and trained just to do this job.... And of course mentioned in every single social media post that they have to try and gain clout😂
@@robertl6196give them a portion of your check then if you're so worried about it
Merry Christmas to you and yours Luke !
Having been involved in some SAR, baring serious injuries (which, when looked into deeper, involved poor decisions), not being prepared was the contributing factor to the people being in the situation they were in. And not being prepared does not just have to me poorly equipped, but also: not knowing the area; weather patterns, wildlife, water features, lack of water, etc. Love seeing these types of videos.
Oh ya Luke,
glad to see you bringing this information to your channel, we all value your opinion on the products your bring to us, and that’s why we are here, but to use your platform as a way to say be aware of the situations you could unintentionally or intentionally put yourself in and offer an opportunity for us consider how well we prepare ourselves, this is a public service announcement that should be stated occasionally, thanks so much !!
Good job, Merry Christmas to you n your
family !!
Luke. Do a series of proper gears(to carry or wear) in the 4 seasons. What is important n what is not. Don't have to be expensive..
having the gear is one thing... knowledge is another...
In that past it wasn't common sense- they'd just die, hoss.
Great episode. Perhaps the signage at the beginning of these trails could have a warning that gives a list of specific gear recommended for that trail. The sign could give fair warning that if you have to be rescued and you did not have the proper gear that you will have to pay the cost for the rescue.
Thanks for the video!
I worked with the Forest Service for almost 16 years patrolling the AT , the Lincoln Woods Wilderness Area and several other popular climbing & hiking areas in NH
I've defiantly seen more unprepared people venturing out than I can count , not only gear wise , but experience wise.
I was a SOLO Wilderness First Responder , High Angle Rescue certified and rescues / recoveries weren't all that an uncommon and a big part of my duties , Winter or Summer. We'd probably have 20ish extractions , several search & rescues, and sadly 8-10 recoveries a Summer and more minor injury responses were a daily occurrence in some of the more well used areas, normally used by the more inexperienced visitors . Sprains , strains, bigger boo-boo's , blisters , dehydration , heat stroke /exhaustion, ect . The usual stuff.
So plan according to when & where your going, be in shape to do so and have the right gear and learn the woods well before venturing to far.
All the best from the High Mountain Homestead and have a Blessed Christmas and New Year,,,,,
We have this discussion all the time here in BC, volunteer SAR teams spend a lot of time and effort rescuing people who go off trail or who just unprepared. Wheeled off road travelers are equally showing up unprepared.
I ran into a young who had blown the diff on thier jeep, both wearing t-shirt, shorts and flip flops with nothing else to put on. They were just out for the day was their reasoning. Where they were was a rough rocky forest service road, About 4 km (2.5 - 3 miles) from the main, and fairly steep up and downs. There is no cell phone service and they literally had no clue where exactly they were other than off the West Harrison Lake FSR.
It was late it the day when I found them, purely by accident I was looking for a bypass route around a failed bridge. It was cooling off and they had been there for a couple hours hoping someone would come along, on a tiny off the side of the side road track. No food no water. Just nuts.
@4:39.......crocs...okay I'm not an outdoors guy and that makes my head hurt from reading that. . granted they were young, but...whyyyyy? even if I were an outdoor guy. I STILL wouldn't wear crocs to hike up a friggin mountain...or do anything else for that matter since I hate the damn things.
Luke I live in one of the great lakes state, people love to ice fish which is fine and dandy but like to wander close to open water the lake has a shipping channel during the warmer weather so it has strong currents and on windy days the ice will break away and strand fisherman, the coast guard helicopter is needed to rescue them only to turn around and head back back out and you guessed it, rescued again on the same day..these were personal friends of mine, the coast guard was threatening to start changing then.
One thing I have come to realize is this: I would NOT be a candidate for winter camping or winter hiking. The main reason being is that the fabrics in winter clothing I am mostly allergic to--and have hypersenitivities to manmade fabrics and synthetics. Specifically polyester and anything with latex, in it. Also wool is a problem, and anything with fur is problem. I get giant dinner plate sized hives wearing this stuff, breathing problems, rashes, and body swelling! I wind up needing epi pen injections, high amounts of Benedryl and Hydroxyzine to combat symptoms. About the ONLY fabric my body will tolerate is 100 percent cotton and rayon fabrics. That is basically it. All of my clothing, sheets, towels, sweaters, coats, underwear, pants, shirts, sweat shirts, everything I wear or sleep on is made of 100 percent cotton--including my socks. I do not wear traditional shoes either.
So, it would be impossible for me to function in cold weater. NO possible. I wind up wearing plastic sandles in the snow if and when it ever snows here. (Gresham Oregon) I tried some polyester furry filled clogs--but they kill my feet. I have very hot feet--and often have very warm feet even in snow wearing socks and open toes plastic sandals as long as my feet stay dry. Yes, I live in Oregon--the rainy state. I do okay. I do love snow. I would stick to summer camping and summer hiking because of my problem with allergies and fabrics.
I also believe that if people are not prepared on purpose, and get hurt as a result of this unpreparedness, and have no locator beacon, that they should be forced to insure themselves for expenses if they need to be rescued, that or pay fully for expenses.
I believe that in Japan, schoolkids have to provide emergency backpacks for earthquake preparedness. We should start training our kids like that too.
Accidents do happen like you say, but those who are just not prepared or too lazy to take precautions may take away from someone who does truly need help. People don't think of others in that scenario. Sad what our world has come to!
Merry Christmas Luke! Thank you for these informative videos!
The problem with people going to Mt Charleston is they leave the desert floor where it's in the high 70's to mid 80's around Thanksgiving. The official elevation of Las Vegas is 2,651 ft above sea level. Mt Charleston at its highest point is another 7,000 feet higher. Temperatures up there can be in the 40's in July and August. Much colder at Thanksgiving. There's a ski and snowboard resort up there and I've seen leftover snow in July.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Luke and your family. Thank you for the excellent news and reviews you have given over the years. I found this very interesting since I used to live in Las Vegas (1980-1992) and have hiked Mount Charleston several times, including once in the winter. It can be dangerous up there, regardless of the season. But in the winter, it can be exceptionally dangerous.
I live in The White Mountains of New Hampshire......... Every year some one Dies !!!!.....Every year there are Senseless intense Rescues for people who dont THINK before Hiking into the wilderness and bring nothing but a cellphone , bottle of water and a granola bar !!!..(Cant Fix Stupid)..... it can be 40* at the base and when you break the tree line all of the sudden a blizzard can blow in with wind chills well below zero and nowhere for shelter !!!!........... again people die here that didnt have to ..... maybe people would be more prepared if cellphones didnt work in the wilderness and YES they have to pay for the rescue !!!..... and fined too!! for failure to carry the proper gear and reckless endangerment of rescue personnel ...... and as Retired Flight Paramedic ...Air Rescues are not CHEAP !!!...at a minimum it costs 2500.00 Plus to lift off the pad and just get to you !!
Very informative video. I've been solo backpacking since I was 17 (now 68) and never had an issue because I was properly trained in Boy Scouts to be prepared. I was fortunate to have been in a scout troop that was heavily involved in backpacking and even took some survival training. I always tell someone reliable what my itinerary is so they know who to contact if I don't check in. Proper gear is essential. I've had to abort trips because of severe weather changes or because I was feeling ill. Don't let your pride over rule common sense since it could save your life. Search and rescue teams are awesome. Where I live in southern California they are always rescuing people and 90% of the time it is because they are ill prepared. I believe that if someone is irresponsible then they should pay the costs of being rescued.
Never done any winter hikes. I'm not mentally prepared or have gear for ice. I only do three season backpacking. It's reckless to go into the wilderness unprepared. Those people that seem to be severely unprepared or careless about their trip should pay the fee if something happens to them.
Luke,
Great information. I am glad that you are doing outdoor news videos. A couple of years ago, I thought about doing some outdoor news content, but had to table it. Great to see that "great minds, think alike." LOL. Hopefully, this year I can get my video editing suite upgraded to Apple, so I can start putting up long-form videos again. Keep up the great work, enjoy your videos very much! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Real life events of rescue are far better than practice. In many cases of just practice only one is not challenged mentally or physically. Rescuers should be paid very good for this job or do something else.
You dont mention whether the crocs where in sport mode?
This stuff is wild. I would love to have a system where the unprepared are forced to pay for their rescues. But it seems like it would be really difficult to determine what is prepared vs unprepared. Where is the line drawn? There are so many variables and factors at play for any given trail on any given day. I don't know, I don't have a good answer. I guess better signage is a good first step. Unfortunately, I think this type of stuff will just lead to more hoops to jump through and more restrictions for regular, common sense, hikers and campers. Permits, fees, trail closures, insurance requirements, etc. are all things I could see becoming more prevalent because of this type of this stuff.
I have made numerous observations in regard to this matter, either hikers going out alone in desolate areas where if they are injured are unlikely to see another hiker for hours or days, or the casual outdoor types that have little to no skills/ experience and have given no thought to assessing their limits. The responses I get are usually those making excuses for them, apparently using some judgment and acknowledging your limits is " offensive ".
We're living in a time when self satisfaction has become the order of the day, and anyone who dares to question poor judgment is an oppressor. That valuable resources are expended, at some risk to the rescuers, is of no consequence to these folks. Apparently, it's all about them and what they want, everyone else be damned.
We need to hand out more Darwin Awards.
We had something like that over here around Mount Shasta. Except they passed away.
Good afternoon from Syracuse NY And MERRY CHRISTMAS Luke and Susan and family
Merry Christmas to everyone, stay safe and use your head and common sense. Thanks Luke. The ill-prepared should have to pay.
Merry Christmas to everyone. If the people are well prepared but need rescue due to an out of control incident, then they shouldn't have to pay. We all pay taxes for these situations. Think of fire, vehicle accidents etc. However, just like a DUI, if the accident is due to negligence or avoidable stupidity, then they should have to pay a reasonable fine and get points in the system; too many points and then they have to pay the whole cost of the rescue.
I for one ,don't need Mr Experts advise
We lived in Las Vegas for 17 yrs. We camped and hiked up on Mt. Charleston over the years. I grew up in So Cal and raised by a Marine. Thankfully Dad taught us how to camp cold and camp hot.
In all my years we never had any issues. However, I understand the foolishness of ppl in Vegas. They think bc they live in the desert that the mountains are " no big deal."
Depends. If you're equipped properly, it's an accident.
If you're hiking with improper gear, it's an active of willful stupidity.
ALSO, trails should be properly maintained. I've hiked, properly equipped in many places where poor trail conditions led me to turn back.
Every year in Poland we have few "special" tourist trying to go on top of our mountains in winter with only lest say beach clothing or hi hells and hiking ..
This happens allot in Arizona people from back east come to tackle the West, also called snowbirds.
I would rather have my tax dollars going for search and rescue than what they go for now. We have enough taxes for our people, but not for the world.
So my comment kind of barely skirts this situation but it fits the situation in a larger sense. I would like to suggest everybody pack with them a high visibility vest it can be easier to find you if you are separated from your group or from your gear if you're wearing the vest you're much more visible. Folded up the vest is smaller than a sandwich.
I also would advise if you can get a small tarp and either orange or green of the high visibility range get it and keep it with your stuff that you must keep with you at all times. If you're lost you'll have a big flag to wave hopefully you'll be found by your tarp with your hi-vis vest on.
There is a very fine line between accident and recklessness. There are some cases where people go out completely unprepared and others cases where people thought they were pretty prepared but conditions changed and things went wrong. Not to say nobody should be held accountable and pay for their own rescue. I just don't want to be the one who has to draw the line.
Hiking in crocs is crazy
Taxpayers should pay.
What a lot of people don't know is that trail conditions and especially weather can change in an instant. I've gone camping and weather service called for clear sky's. Yeah no, straight blizzard rolled over me, luckily I was prepared. Always bring supplies so your ready for worst case scenario. Mother nature does not play around😂
Well not to be mean, but as a 52 year old camper and hunter in the Catskills mountains of NY, I'm not surprised since people are just very lazy and just have no clue about anything anymore! This news is worse than the people that just role outta bed in their pajamas and slippers,and decide to go shopping!
Rediculous!!🙄🙄🙄
Interesting discussion. In the pyrenees and alps they have implemented huge fines if you need to be rescued with helicopter etc. Especially Spain & Italy are sick and tired of unprepared "hikers" that end up missing/lost. We are talking about thousands of euros in fines. I myself have run into "lost hikers" in the pyrenees screaming for help - while I had the time of my life. Having the right equipment I had to waste half a day leading the group to the nearest village where they could get help with their frostbites, hypothermia, dehydration, cuts and bruises. I might sound harsh - but people need to stop thinking that going into remote mountainous areas are like a trip to disney world. Nature is unforgiving and will snuff you out in a second if you are not prepared .