Lutsel K’e RCMP are reminding anyone planning to go out on the land or harvesting to have a backup plan after an overdue traveller required assistance in the field.
Police say they were contacted on Jan. 24 after an overdue traveller had not arrived in the community as expected. A second group of people later reached out to the police and informed them they had met the traveller while they were on the land and said the person was not well equipped for the weather conditions and distance they were intending to travel.
“A search and rescue operation was initiated and the Lutsel K’e RCMP began organizing a search party with the assistance of Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) and local volunteers from Lutsel K’e,” said NT RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Matt Halstead. “As the search was underway, RCMP learned that the overdue traveller had been located, was safe but required assistance and was being brought back to the community.
“This incident serves as a reminder of the absolute importance of preparing before going out on the land. Difficult conditions, mechanical failures of equipment and injury are all possibilities and the difference between a positive outcome and a tragedy, often comes down to preparation.
“The Lutsel K’e RCMP would thank all of the volunteers that took part in yesterday’s search and rescue as well as the other people who were travelling on the land that stopped to offer aid to the overdue traveller.”
Police are recommending anyone planning a trip on the land, to a cabin or to go harvesting to make the following preparations before heading out:
-Make sure that your method of transportation is in good working order
-Carry extra fuel – if possible bring more than is required for the trip
-Check weather conditions before travelling and dress appropriately
-Inform someone of your travel plans, where you are going, when you intend to arrive and what route you are taking
-Travel with someone else, if at all possible
-Carry emergency supplies, including a means of communication, a first aid kit and extra food and water