Coastguard Helicopter called to mountain rescues

Coastguard Helicopter called to mountain rescues

LONDON. April 7, 2008/3mnewswire.org/ -- At midnight last night Stornoway Coastguard were alerted by ARCC (Air Rescue Coordination Centre) Kinloss of two walkers that had not been seen for five hours after setting out to walk from Ben Mor Lodge to Inchnadamph in the Scottish Highlands.

ARCC Kinloss requested the scramble of Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 100 to begin a search of the area, however when the helicopter arrived on scene it became apparent that due to snow and heavy rain it was unsafe to proceed. Lochinver Coastguard Rescue Team and Northern Constabulary Dog Unit began a search on the ground, with the helicopter due to reinitiate the search, along with a volunteer Mountain Rescue Team, at 0600 the following morning.

At 0545 Stornoway Coastguard were advised by the Police that the couple had been located safe and well after taking shelter in a snowhole during the night and emerging at first light.

Previous to this incident, at quarter past two on Saturday afternoon Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 100 was also scrambled from Stornoway after ARCC Kinloss requested its assistance in the rescue of three walkers stranded on a ridge at Ben Nevis.

Clyde Coastguard Rescue Team, Nevis volunteer Mountain Rescue Team and Scottish Ambulance also attended the search, and at 1600 the three casualties were located by the helicopter. All casualties were airlifted to Fort William for onward transportation to Belford Hospital, with Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team assisting in relocating the one injured casualty, and Fort William Coastguard Rescue Team manning the landing site.

Martin Collins, Watch Manager, Stornoway Coastguard said:

"Coastguard Helicopter Rescue 100, along with Coastguard Rescue Teams, attended two mountain rescue incidents this weekend assisting Mountain Rescue Teams.

We would always advise that walkers check the weather conditions before setting out, as there was thick snow this weekend that brings difficult walking conditions and the possibility of becoming disorientated. Only ever choose walks that are within your comfort zone and capabilities, and ensure you take the appropriate equipment and attire for the conditions and terrain. Finally, always inform someone of your intended trail and final arrival time before setting out."

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