Home » General » Sycamore Falls Climber Injured

Sycamore Falls Climber Injured

Sedona Rope Rescue team in action

Sedona Rope Rescue team in action

Sedona AZ (June 26, 2015) – At noontime on June 25, 2015, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and Coconino County Search and Rescue personnel were called to the scene of a rappelling accident in the Sycamore Falls area of Flagstaff, Arizona. According to the caller, a 56-year-old man had been struck by a falling rock and was at the bottom of the canyon.

Due to the remote location, treacherous terrain, and the unknown extent of the victim’s injuries, assistance was requested from Arizona Department of Public Safety Air Rescue from Kingman (AZ), the Ponderosa Fire District, and Lifeline Ambulance.

A search and rescue team member rappelled to the man’s location at the bottom of the canyon and conducted an assessment. It was determined that the victim suffered isolated injuries to his left knee and foot, but not any serious or life threatening injuries. After deciding that a helicopter rescue was unnecessary, a ground based rope rescue system was constructed to bring the victim and rescuer to the top of the cliff.

Coconino County Sheriff BadgeAfter the ascent, the victim was transported by ambulance personnel to the Flagstaff Medical Level One Trauma Center for treatment.

This incident was an unfortunate accident. Because the victim was wearing appropriate safety equipment while rappelling, this situation and his injuries were minimized. It is important for all outdoor enthusiasts to tell someone where they are going, carry the Ten Essentials*, and use the appropriate protective equipment for the activities they undertake:

Here is a list of your Ten Essentials*:

    1. Water
    2. Food
    3. Extra warm clothing
    4. Navigation equipment (map, compass, GPS)
    5. Headlamp/Flashlight
    6. First Aid Kit
    7. Shelter Material (space blanket or large leaf bag)
    8. Fire Starting Kit (use extreme caution in the dry summer months)
    9. Pocket Knife or Multi-Tool
    10. Whistle/Signal Mirror.

Remember that proper planning and personal safety are your responsibility! Don’t shirk it.

Read www.SedonaEye.com for daily news and interactive views!

Read www.SedonaEye.com for daily news and interactive views!

Leave a Reply

Copyright © 2008-2017 · Sedona Eye · All Rights Reserved · Posts · Comments · Facebook · Twitter ·