North Vancouver firefighters carried out a rope rescue after a woman fell down a steep slope near the Capilano River on Sunday morning.
Just before 8:30 a.m., the District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services received an emergency call. Two women in their 30s were climbing down a steep 150-foot slope near Capilano Crescent by the river. During the descent, one of the women slipped and fell, injuring her head, ribs, and leg. Her friend managed to call for help, said assistant chief Ryan Stewart.
When the rope rescue team arrived, firefighters were lowered down the unstable slope with medical supplies and a rescue blanket. Stewart explained that the rescue site was challenging because loose rocks were falling, making the hill unsafe.
Looking for a safer way, the team moved a bit downstream and set up a high-angle rope system. This system helped bring both women safely back up to solid ground. The injured woman was secured in a basket stretcher and lifted out first. Then, the rescuers helped her friend climb back up.
After the rescue, the injured hiker was handed over to the B.C. Ambulance Service. She received treatment for minor injuries.
Steep Slopes Pose Serious Danger
Following the rescue, assistant chief Stewart warned about the risks of climbing down steep slopes like the one near the Capilano River.
“Many people don’t realize that going down can loosen rocks, causing them to fall,” Stewart said. “If two people are climbing down, the person above may trigger falling rocks that can hit the person below. This can cause falls that may be fatal at such heights.”
Stewart also stressed the importance of wearing the right footwear to avoid accidents on trails.
“This year, we’ve seen many injuries on trails that could have been avoided with proper shoes and preparation for outdoor activities,” he added.
The incident highlights the dangers of venturing off marked trails and the need to be ready for nature’s challenges. Firefighters urge hikers to stay on safe paths and wear suitable gear when exploring outdoor areas with steep terrain.
