Kamloops Search Rescue teams were active on the evening of Saturday, July 19, responding to two separate calls near Kamloops Lake.
The first call came at about 6:45 p.m., when BC Emergency Health Services asked for help with a dirt biker who had hurt his shoulder. The injured rider managed to contact the RCMP just before the rescue team arrived at a location southwest of Kamloops.
A companion riding with the injured biker helped guide the rescue team to the injured man. However, this companion needed help himself and was safely escorted back to Duffy Lake by the rescue team.
Kamloops Search Rescue explained that the companion was unfamiliar with the trail system and did not have a phone or map. Because of this, he was at risk of getting lost.
While the rescue team was still working in the area, the RCMP sent them another call about a drifting boat on Kamloops Lake. The boat’s air horn was sounding, signaling trouble.
The rescue team quickly moved to respond. But just as they neared the highway to get to the boat, they were told to stand down. Another nearby boat had towed the drifting vessel safely back to the marina.
Kamloops Search Rescue finished their work and demobilized shortly before midnight.
The two incidents highlight the importance of staying safe outdoors and being prepared with the right tools, like phones and maps, especially when exploring unfamiliar trails. Rescue teams remain ready to assist those in need on land and water in the Kamloops area.