Tryfan, scene of the 'unnecessary' rescue
A helicopter was called to a Snowdonia mountain yesterday to airlift a young walker who turned out to have a grazed knee.
The 16-year-old girl from Kent fell while scrambling with a party on Tryfan. North Wales Police were alerted at 3.45pm and mobilised members of Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation.
Initial reports suggested she might have broken her thigh bone. A spokesperson for the rescue team said: “Due to the potential seriousness of such an injury a helicopter was immediately requested whilst the team made its way to base.”
A Sea King helicopter from RAF Valley on Anglesey airlifted the girl from the 915m (3,002ft) mountain to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor. She was discharged from the hospital a short time later, suffering from a graze on her knee.
The OVMRO spokesperson called the incident ‘a totally unnecessary callout’.
mikep
21 July 2009"The OVMRO spokesperson called the incident ‘a totally unnecessary callout"
How much Diazepam did they have to give the Oggy valley guy before he was allowed make a comment for publication!
Robert
21 July 2009People who call out Rescue Services should be charged the full cost if it is established that it was unecessary. I do lots of walking - it's pretty obvious if someone has broken a leg!
Wakefield
22 July 2009FFS!!!
What next? Stinging Nettle rash..
Having over 25 years experience of fell and mountain walking - in the last 5 years I have come across many 'walkers/climbers' who just do not have a clue about the mountains.
They are simply an accident ready to happen. And, sadly, usually do - with distressing injuries.
The disappointing fact is that they arrive, and are not clearly informed of the potential dangers.
andyr
22 July 2009I agree slightly with Robert, but would qualify it, teams and parties go out with little thought of self rescue, of being properly equipped to even help an injured collegue of the hill. Calling the MRT is becoming a first reaction to any situation, it should obviously be used when someone has fallen and lost conciousness for a period of time or where injury is apparent and could be life threatening (a broken thigh bone would fit this category). Investigation on the hill would show inflammation, swelling or limb displacement, this should be the first reaction, investigate, make comfortable, warm and secure. Bandages and walking poles will splint a limb, walking poles and extra clothing a basic stretcher.
People who at least carry out basic first aid and establish the extent of injury should be justified in the 'free' call out if the injury is disabling. Others who rely on this assistance as a first aid should be actively discouraged and this may ultimately be financial.
Get first aid trained and take yours and others safety seriously, you would at work.