Members of the Sundre RCMP Detachment responded to a complaint of a seriously injured 56 year old male in the area of Pine Needle Creek, west of Sundre, AB. The injured male had been operating an off highway vehicle (OHV) in the area with several other people when his OHV rolled, landing on top of him and causing severe injury.
Sundre RCMP coordinated the rescue, along with members of Sundre Fire and Rescue, Kananaskis Public Safety, Alpine Helicopters, Sundre Search and Rescue, Alberta Health Services and STARS Air Ambulance.
The injured male was successfully extracted from the remote location where he was found, using a helicopter and slinging techniques to air lift him from the site. The male was stabilized by medical personnel and then transported to a nearby site where STARS air lifted the male to Foothills Hospital.
The exact injuries could not be determined at the time, however the male was conscious and in stable condition while being transported.
The collision appeared to occur as a result of steep terrain in the area. The injured male and his group were experienced back country users with several years of off highway vehicle use. The group was well equipped for emergency situations and used equipment such as a satellite telephone and GPS units to request emergency services and provide accurate information in relation to their location.
The Sundre RCMP and its partners want to remind the public of the potential hazards when travelling or pursing recreational activities in the back country. Everyone should travel in groups and not exceed their level of experience for the activities that they engage in. Equipment such as GPS, satellite communications, first aid kits and survival gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.