Michigan Man Rescued from Ill-Advised Arizona Adventure

Old Siphon Draw Trail (photo by Thee E. Aldriches)

if you like this article, click the Blip chiclet!
based on a news item from KOLD TV

A Michigan man who spent the evening of Dec 3, 2009 stranded in the Tonto National Forest of Arizona, was rescued at about 10 pm by the Pinal County Sheriff's Department. He had taken a cell phone with him, and used it properly to summon help when he found that he was trapped between two cliffs and unable to get back to the trail.

Ian Sredersas, Michigan city not indicated, went on a hike in the Lost Dutchman State Park which adjoins the Tonto National Forest. He hiked up the Old Siphon Draw Trail, which is relatively easy, but then ventured off-trail to explore some of the many nearby formations. This trek was beyond his skill level, and he realized near dark that he was not going to be able to hike out.

Pinal county's newly re-organized Search and Rescue division responded to the call at 6:10 pm that Sredersas was uninjured but lost. The 20-year-old appeared to be under a great amount of stress. Once Sredersas was located, then attention shifted to his rescue. He was flown out by the Maricopa County Aviation/Rescue Unit.

The Sheriff's report focused on the actions of his team. "Their attention to detail and skill provided critical information and coordination service to the responders in the field," commented Sheriff Paul Babeu. "This rescue was a big success for our newly organized SAR team. I am extremely proud of all the PCSO SAR Posse volunteers and employees from my office who dedicated themselves to the success of this mission."

Although it was good that the young man had his cell phone, and was able to be located, this is another story which illustrates the need to plan ahead. Know your limits, be prepared for emergencies. With even just a bit of planning the entire rescue would have been unnecessary.

See Tonto National Forest
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch