As summertime rolls in, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is issuing a public service announcement to ensure hikers are adequately prepared for their outdoor adventures in the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding trails. In a recent briefing, the office highlighted that unpreparedness and unfamiliarity with the terrain are the leading causes of distress calls and subsequent rescues. According to Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Website.
In the event of an unexpected turn of events, these items range from navigation tools – like maps, and GPS devices, to essentials for survival such as extra food, water, and shelter. "We’ve found that the majority of people who need rescue are not prepared for trail and weather conditions, or become disoriented and lost because they are unfamiliar with the area," was a statement shared by the Sheriff's Office on their website. To better navigate emergencies, the Sheriff's Office also proposes the STOP method: Sit, Think, Observe, and Plan, which is designed to calmly guide lost hikers towards safety.
The website advises hikers to take proactive steps such as packing their phones with emergency communications in mind and familiarizing themselves with the use of their phone’s GPS capabilities. If a hiker does find themselves lost and in need of rescue, the MCSOSAR team, partnered exclusively with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, is trained to respond efficiently. As per their 2023 statistics, the search and rescue volunteers logged an impressive 24,000 volunteer hours, with 96 active volunteers who dedicated 3,758 mission hours to keeping hikers and outdoor enthusiasts safe.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the young adults make up 60 percent of the general membership of the MCSOSAR—demonstrating the vital role which the youth play in the emergency response efforts within the community. Established in 1961, MCSOSAR proudly stands as the second longest active search and rescue team in the region. Their commitment to safety and preparedness is unwavering, as they continue to serve and protect those who seek to enjoy the natural beauty of Multnomah County's wilderness areas.
