Missing snowmobilers in Fremont County are back home, safe

ISLAND PARK – Two snowmobilers lost in Fremont County in separate incidents this weekend are safe.

The first one happened Friday on Reclamation Road east of Ashton, according to a news release from Fremont County Search and Rescue.

A snowmobiler, whom authorities did not name, got separated from their group and ran out of fuel.

Four people from the group ventured out to look for him after alerting Fremont County. Together, they found the missing rider.

As that search was wrapping up, authorities got another call about a missing snowmobiler north of Island Park Village.

An air and ground search got underway at 6:42 p.m. With freezing temperatures and nightfall approaching, Fremont County Sheriff’s Office got involved, along with EMS and Air Idaho Rescue.

Search parties found the unnamed snowmobiler just before midnight after a five-hour search. He had apparently tipped over, unable to continue, and taken shelter in a nearby cabin.

Authorities are grateful to everyone who helped and are reminding people to plan their trips carefully, carry adequate fuel and always stay with your group.

“FCSAR reminds the public to be cautious when venturing into remote areas during the winter months and to carry proper gear, communication devices, and knowledge of the terrain,” the agency says in a news release.

Authorities offer the following tips and suggestions for anyone recreating in Fremont County:

• Pay special attention to your location when recreating in Fremont County. Watch for landmarks that could potentially help rescuers locate you. Fremont County has many canyons, hills, ravines, etc. and a person can quickly become disoriented and confused.
• The numerous waters-ways in the county are unpredictable and sometimes potentially dangerous and can quickly turn an enjoyable activity into a disaster.
• Snowmobiling mountainous areas are sometimes deceiving, and you can easily find yourself stranded in a ravine or avalanche areas. Check local avalanche warnings, if available.
• If you have a GPS, cell phone, FRS radio, etc., be sure to take them with you, but do not rely on them entirely. Find the emergency channel for the area. Make sure all members of your party are monitoring the same channel.
• Take necessary equipment and survival gear when venturing into the back country. Dress appropriately for your activities.
• Plan ahead. Make sure you know the area you are heading into before heading into it. If possible, avoid participating in activities without a buddy or companion. Tell someone where you are going and stick to that plan. Let someone know where you are planning to go and when you are to return.
• If you find yourself in trouble, stop, take a look around you, make mental notes or write them down in relation to any features or landmarks that would assist in your rescue. Do not go any farther unless you are in danger. The farther you go, the more complicated and dangerous it is to get yourself to safety, making rescue efforts more difficult and dangerous.

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