The Douglas County Search and Rescue team has been activated twice in the past few days in response to SOS signals spotted by pilots near the Colorado Trail, yet no one has been found in need of aid. The first call occurred on Thursday night when pilots reported seeing what they believed to be an SOS signal coming from a light on the ground near Indian Creek and the Colorado Trail, as detailed by KDVR.
Despite their efforts, which included deploying an ATV alongside foot crews and a drone to comb through the assigned area, the rescuers returned empty-handed and weary from their search that stretched into the early morning hours. The series of incidents, described as involving "much of the team," failed to conclude with the discovery of anyone signaling distress, according to Denver7.
In light of the searches, Douglas County officials have issued a public plea to individuals in the area, urging the responsible use of SOS signals. "Please note, if you happen to be in that area and are signaling aircraft with an SOS recreationally, it’s taken seriously and results in rescuers being called out to comb a broad area of pretty challenging terrain - so please only signal aircraft if it’s truly an emergency," said the agency, as per Denver7.
