REGINA — Five snowmobilers have been returned home safely after spending the night stranded in -35 C weather on Saturday, according to an RCMP report.
The group of five adults was stranded on Dec. 18 in a remote area near Clam Lake, about 70 kilometres northwest of La Ronge.
They had gotten stuck in a patch of muskeg, still unfrozen, and were unable to make it to civilization.
La Ronge RCMP said the snowmobilers had enough of a cell signal to call the detachment at approximately 8:30 a.m. for help, before communications went out.
The group said they were wearing snow gear and had some supplies, with a fire already started, but one member had gotten wet from the muskeg and was extremely cold.
Temperatures that day had dropped to -35 to -40 C, said the release, and the individuals were in several danger of exposure.
“It was a life-threatening situation,” said Cpl. Shane Marion, of La Ronge RCMP. “That kind of exposure to the elements could lead to hypothermia, which can be fatal.”
A search party was dispatched, including RCMP, the Canadian Rangers and members of the snowmobilers’ family and two towed snowmobiles ready for use if needed.
Two members of the group met the search party on the trailhead, as they had travelled out in search for help. The two were able to direct search party members in the direction of the remaining three snowmobilers.
With the help of the Canadian Rangers, the search party was able to successfully locate the remaining stranded individuals and return them safety.
La Ronge RCMP said the collaboration with the stranded individuals’ family members was a key component in the safe result, as their knowledge of the area was a big asset.
“Our police officers may not have the knowledge of local geography like long-time community members do. That’s why they are a key asset for us, especially when we’re dealing with situations in the bush and on the trails in remote areas,” said Marlon.
All five snowmobilers were located and assessed by EMS, and declared to be in good health.
“We were very happy,” Cpl. Marion says. “With those frigid conditions, we knew these people were in danger and time was of the essence. We thank the family and the Canadian Rangers for helping get them back to safety – and warmth – quickly.”
