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Bell Rock Rescue

Bell Rock

Bell Rock is a formidable hike despite its ease of access. Planning is required for its safe traverse.

Sedona AZ (February 11, 2015) – On February 8, 2015, at approximately 7:30PM, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office received a call that two people were stuck near the top of Bell Rock in the Village of Oak Creek, Sedona, Arizona.

The initial call came from a concerned citizen reporting flashing lights on Bell Rock which appeared to indicate someone in distress. This report was followed by a 911 call from a California couple on Bell Rock who confirmed being lost and, due to darkness, did not want to attempt hiking out on their own. They were currently stuck on a small outcropping, had no water and little food, and were wearing only light clothing. Their cell phone was also nearly out of power.

The first deputy on scene spotted the pair from some distance, and coordinated a Verde Search and Rescue Team response. These rescuers were unable to reach the pair directly and determined the necessity for a technical rope rescue to safely bring the two Los Angeles hikers off a ledge. As a result, members of the Yavapai County Search and Rescue Team’s Backcountry Unit were called out. Eight rescuers arrived and were able to reach the couple and deliver water and warm clothing. Over the next several hours, these incredible volunteers set rope lines to rappel the pair to safety.

The couple told deputies they began an ascent on Bell Rock around 9:00 in the morning and decided to remain and catch the sunset, but darkness fell much faster than anticipated. On the descent, they became lost after taking the wrong trail.

Lessons? Yes.

Planning any hike is an important part of preparation, especially when it involves difficult trails and climbs like those on Bell Rock. Darkness should always be anticipated and hikes should conclude well before sunset to avoid danger.

Once it was apparent they were lost, the two were smart to remain stationary. As with rescue cases in the past, the couple’s cell phone became a lifeline. Consider conserving cell phone battery life on such long hikes by placing the phone in “airplane mode” when not in use which prevents the phone from power loss normally used to maintain contact with cell towers while hiking.

Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260.

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

For the best Arizona news and views, read www.SedonaEye.com daily!

5 Comments

  1. James Scally says:

    shared this with others. Lots easier on the ascent than on the way down sometimes !!

  2. Larry Smith says:

    that is why they practice, way to go guys

  3. appreciated and shared this info!

  4. Katharyn Ira says:

    It’s important to remember taxes pay for this in communities, I’ve no problem with that & neither do friends and family. Thanks Sedona Fire and Verde rescue teams for being the best in the nation. We rely on you and we appreciate you in Arizona, all you first responders.

  5. and Dolly Martinez give this rescue a thumbs up!

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