Missing snowmobiles in Fremont County are back home safe – East Idaho News

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

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

A biker, whose name authorities have not released, became separated from their group and ran out of fuel.

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

While that search was winding down, authorities received another call about a missing snowmobile north of Island Park Village.

An air and ground search began at 6:42 p.m. With freezing temperatures and nightfall approaching, the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office was called in, along with EMS and Air Idaho Rescue.

Search teams found the unnamed snowmobile just before midnight after a five-hour search. He apparently toppled over, unable to continue, and took refuge in a nearby cabin.

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

“FCSAR reminds the public to exercise caution when venturing into remote areas during the winter months and to carry appropriate equipment, communication devices and knowledge of the terrain,” the agency said in a statement.

Officials offer the following tips and suggestions for anyone vacationing in Fremont County:

• Pay close attention to your location when vacationing in Fremont County. Watch for landmarks that could potentially help rescuers find you. Fremont County has many canyons, hills, ravines, etc. and one can quickly become disoriented and confused.
• The county’s many waterways are unpredictable and sometimes potentially dangerous, and can quickly turn an enjoyable activity into a disaster.
• Snowmobiling in mountainous areas is sometimes treacherous and you can easily find yourself stuck in a gully or avalanche. Check local avalanche warnings if available.
• If you have a GPS, cell phone, FRS radio, etc., be sure to take them with you, but don’t rely entirely on them. Find the emergency channel for the area. Make sure all members of your group are watching the same channel.
• Take the necessary equipment and survival gear when you venture into the countryside. Dress appropriately for your activities.
• Plan ahead. Make sure you know the area you’re heading to before heading there. If possible, avoid participating in activities without a friend or companion. Tell someone where you’re going and stick to that plan. Let someone know where you plan to go and when you should be back.
• If you get into trouble, stop, look around, make mental notes or write them down in relation to any features or landmarks that would help you in your rescue. Do not go further unless you are in danger. The further you go, the more complicated and dangerous it is to save yourself, making rescue operations more difficult and dangerous.