Have you ever gone hiking to clear your mind and recharge your batteries? It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and find some peace. But let me tell you about a hiker who might not have been thinking so clearly on their recent adventure.
Just a few days ago, news broke about a hiker who got lost on Mount Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado. The hiker’s identity remains a mystery, but their story has been making waves on social media. It turns out that this hiker ignored rescue calls because they came from an unknown number. Can you believe it?
According to Lake County Search and Rescue, the hiker was reported missing at 8 pm after starting their hike around 9 am. Search crews quickly went out to look for them but found no trace. It seemed that the hiker had wandered off the trail and spent the night trying to find their way back.
After a heart-pounding 24 hours, the hiker finally stumbled upon the trail and made it back to their car. The surprising part? They had no idea that a rescue effort had been underway to find them. Why? Well, the hiker disregarded repeated phone calls from the search and rescue team because they didn’t recognize the number. Can you imagine that? Ignoring a call for help because of an unknown number!
Lake County Search and Rescue took to Facebook to share their astonishment and offer an important piece of advice. They wrote, “If you’re overdue according to your itinerary, and you start getting repeated calls from an unknown number, please answer the phone; it may be a SAR team trying to confirm you’re safe!”
I must say, it’s quite unbelievable that someone in the midst of being lost and panicking would disregard a phone call like that. But as the Lake County Search and Rescue team reminds us, common sense isn’t always so common, especially in moments of distress.
While social media users found humor in the situation, it’s essential to approach it with respect. The hiker’s identity has never been revealed, and they didn’t deserve to be ridiculed. In an emergency, it’s easy to judge from the sidelines, but we should remember that what seems obvious in hindsight may not be clear when you’re lost and anxious.
In Colorado, where outdoor activities are popular, people tend to understand the search and rescue infrastructure. But the same isn’t true nationwide. So let’s learn from this incident and keep our comments respectful and understanding.
The lesson here is simple. If you ever find yourself off the trail and spending the night in the mountains, please pick up the phone! Taking a moment to assure the rescuers that you’re safe and sound can save them time, effort, and unnecessary worry.
Stay safe and happy hiking!
