Every week the NYS DEC posts the Statewide Forest Ranger Highlights. This past week Moreau Lake State Park was featured when a group of hikers got lost. Below is the report:
Town of Moreau
Saratoga County
Wilderness Rescue: On Oct. 13 at 7:15 p.m., Warren County 911 transferred a call to DEC’s Ray Brook Dispatch from a group of lost hikers. Coordinates provided by 911 indicated the group was lost in Moreau Lake State Park. The caller, a 54-year-old woman from Greenfield Center, also stated that she was late taking medications for a chronic condition. New York State Park Police were advised of the lost hikers and dispatched an officer to the scene. The hikers had no map, flashlights, or gear, and made a wrong turn in the dark before calling 911. After directing the hikers to call 911 for a second set of coordinates, voice contact was established at 9:06 p.m. Forest Ranger Joseph Hess located the hikers approximately 0.25 miles from both sets of 911 coordinates. The woman was assessed by Moreau EMS at the Spier Falls trailhead at 11:03 p.m. and released.
There are a few simple things you can do to prevent this from happening:
- Carry a map and compass, a location/mapping application on your smartphone and/or GPS. The park has cell coverage throughout;
- Let someone know your plans;
- Carry water, protein bars, flashlight and basic first aid supplies;
- Plan your hike with plenty of time to return in daylight;
- Talk with the park staff about the trail you are taking to make sure you can handle it.
Below is an excellent article on what to do if you are lost.
Please keep in mind – when you need to be rescued, others are putting their lives at risk. Let’s all work together so you can enjoy your hike and prevent any problems from happening.