Strong cell phone

signal helps

in hiker’s rescue
By Melanie Davis
melanie@mountaintimes.com

After searching for nearly three hours rescue workers found a lost hiker near the Blue Ridge Parkway Thursday night.

Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue Jim Landis spokesman said a call was received just after 9:30 p.m. from a hiker who was unable to find their way out of the wooden area.

Kevin Young, 38, of Boone, told rescue workers he had entered from an access point in the Shulls Mills Road area at approximately 5:30 p.m. After hiking for a few hours, he was turned around and unable to retrace his steps.

After Young called 911, dispatchers were able to triangulate his position using the cell-phone signal and GPS software. Rescue workers from Blowing Rock were given the coordinates and a search began.

Landis estimated 15 members of the Blowing Rock department were present. Two teams went out in search of Young, while others set up a command post to oversee the operation.

David Hanncock, technician for Watauga County Emergency Management, was also on scene to provide additional resources as necessary.

Young remained in constant communication throughout the search operation. Chip Sudderth, firefighter, continued cell phone contact while rescuers searched the vicinity. The man also called 911 for a second time, at the direction of Sudderth, in order to confirm the GPS coordinates.

“[Dispatcher] Kyle Hassler really did an excellent job helping rescuers and providing the coordinates,” Landis said.

As rescue personnel approached the area identified by coordinates, they began shouting Young’s name and were able to locate him.

The team and Young hiked out of the area and were picked up by Blowing Rock personnel along an old trail, wide enough for a vehicle, accessed from parkway at approximately 12:30 a.m.

Young did not require medical attention, according to Landis. He was properly dressed for the terrain and temperatures, and equipped with snacks and water.

“This time of year, we expect people to be out and enjoying our area,” Landis said. “It is important to remain safe and be prepared.”

Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue recommends hikers wear appropriate foot wear, to keep feet warm and dry while suitable to the terrain. The mountain temperatures should be considered. During fall months temperatures may reach 80 degrees in the late afternoon and drop to upper-50s during the night. Take a fleece or jacket along in case something should happen, the department suggests.

Snacks, water and a flashlight are also recommended, as well as a map of the area hikers plan to be in.

Landis added it is best to hike with a companion or let someone know where you plan to be in case of an injury.

A charged cell phone is also a good idea, as in this case, it could by the link to rescue personnel.