CHENEY, Wash. – A hunter was found on the Columbia Plateau Trail on Tuesday after becoming lost for eight hours in the dense fog.
Around 5:20 p.m. on Nov. 15, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office to the report of a man who said he had been walking for eight hours and become disoriented. Due to the darkness and dense fog, the man was unsure which direction to go.
Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) operators found the caller’s general location, but his cell phone showed he only had 5% power.
SCSO and Search and Rescue responded to the location to search for the man.
SCSO said patrol deputies could not locate him due to downed trees and limited access to the trail. Search and Rescue arrived with ATVs to search the area.
The man was eventually located ‘cold and tired’ on the south side of the trail near South Mullinix Road and South Harmony Road. He declined medical attention but was relieved to be found by deputies, SCSO said.
SCSO reminds you that if you’re planning an adventure in the backcountry to prepare and plan for the unexpected. Share your plan with a trusted friend or family member, including when you’re leaving, the trail and route you plan to take, who will be with you, etc. Bring more than enough food, water and dress appropriately, including an extra item for unexpected weather.
They urge you to bring a charged GPS, compass, matches and flashlight. It’s essential to rely on something other than your cell phone as there could be a lack of signal, and the battery can quickly be drained.
“We live and recreate in a beautiful area with several opportunities to hike, ski, snowmobile, hunt, fish, bike, climb, and many other fun activities, but always remember to be prepared for anything, plan for the unexpected, and if an emergency occurs or you become lost, be able to help rescuers find you,” SCSO said.
