Nelson SAR assists in rescue of backcountry skier from Five-Mile Basin
By Nelson Daily Staff
Nelson Search and Rescue was called out Saturday (January 2) to assist in the evacuation of injured backcountry skier.
Chris Armstrong of Nelson SAR said in a media release the call came in during the early afternoon for a medical evacuation from Five-Mile basin located behind Whitewater Ski Resort.
“A well-equipped ski group was enjoying the area and the good conditions when a member of the group suffered a fall resulting in a knee injury,” Armstrong said.
“Due to the location and difficulty to get their injured member out of the valley before dark, Search and Rescue was called to assist.”
Armstrong said NSAR accessed the area by helicopter to retrieve the subject. The area was unsuitable for a landing so the team performed a hover entry of one subject and transported to BCEHS at the Nelson airport.
Armstrong said at first the ski group was reluctant to call for assistance, fearing a massive rescue bill as they were from out of the country.
However, the group was advised by a local skier SAR missions are at “no charge” to the injured party.
Armstrong said Nelson SAR and BC SAR Association would like the public to know that we do not charge for rescue in Canada.
“This time of year darkness comes early and situations in the backcountry can compound quickly,” he said.
“ If you are in need of help, make the call right away. Always error on the side of safety.”
Nelson Search and Rescue (NSAR), a non-profit, volunteer organization is part of the 80 BC SAR Association affiliated SAR groups and their more than 2500 unpaid professionals.
