Orcas Emergency Responders Rescue Man Trapped in Mine Shaft

From Kevin O’Brien, Fire Chief/CEO of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue

Orcas Island Fire & Rescue responded to a call for an Orcas citizen trapped in an abandoned mineshaft on Mt. Constitution at 5:04 p.m. on Friday, February 8. Arriving rescuers found a 52-year-old male who was tangled in his ropes and suspended upside down in an abandoned mine shaft near the Cold Springs trail in Moran State Park. The man was accompanied by a friend who was able to hale hikers on the trail who then called 911.

Thirty-two OIFR members and four units were involved in the incident. Responders hiked approximately three quarters of a mile from a trailhead and initiated well-practiced rope rescue operations resulting in a successful rescue approximately two hours and fifteen minutes from the time of dispatch. After a medical evaluation by OIFR EMS personnel, the man was determined to be uninjured.

Orcas Island Fire and Rescue’s technical rescue team provides rescue capabilities to address the unique situations presented with our diverse island topography including vehicle entrapment, rope rescue, and other challenging incidents. Since March 1, 2012, our rescue team skills have been employed on the following alarms: Two additional rescues on the trails of Moran State Park, a recent vehicle accident, two searches for missing people and two canine rescues. Currently under the leadership of Lieutenant Rich Harvey, the OIFR Technical Rescue Team rigorously trains to maintain a high level of performance.

Because of the many areas near cliffs, hills, and water, Orcas Island Fire and Rescue recommends exercising due care and caution while enjoying our beautiful island with the following reminders:

· Explore the island with a partner

· If exploring trails and areas alone, tell someone your plans

· Always wear a life jacket on the water

For more information regarding this incident and the services of Orcas Island Fire and Rescue, please contact Chief Kevin O’Brien at kobrien@orcasfire.org or by phone at (360) 298-5178.