Colorado Search and Rescue Teams See Record Number of Rescues Labor Day Weekend

Unprecedented Number of Calls Due to Increased Outdoor Recreation

Colorado search and rescue teams responded to a record number of calls over the Labor Day weekend, as an influx of visitors flocked to the state's popular outdoor destinations. According to the Colorado Search and Rescue Association, teams responded to 85 calls, the highest number ever recorded for a single weekend.

Factors Contributing to the Surge

• Increased outdoor recreation due to the holiday weekend
• Warm and sunny weather
• Crowded trails and parking areas
• Inexperience of some visitors

The rescues ranged from minor injuries to life-threatening situations, including lost hikers, stranded climbers, and people who had fallen or become disoriented. Many of the calls came from hikers who had underestimated the difficulty of the trails they were attempting or who had failed to properly prepare for their outings.

Search and rescue teams across the state worked tirelessly to respond to the calls, often in challenging conditions. In one instance, a team spent over 12 hours searching for a missing hiker in Rocky Mountain National Park. The hiker was eventually found safe, but the incident highlighted the importance of being prepared for emergencies when venturing into the wilderness.

The Colorado Search and Rescue Association urges all outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions to avoid getting into trouble. These precautions include:

• Choosing trails that are appropriate for your fitness level
• Telling someone where you are going and when you expect to return
• Bringing appropriate gear and supplies
• Letting someone know if you are overdue

By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of needing to be rescued and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.