Newtown Hiker Struck By Lightning Refuses Treatment: Report

NEWTOWN, CT — A hiker from Newtown was struck by lightning in New Hampshire's White Mountains and reportedly refused help from a group of hiking firefighters, according to a report on The News Times.

Firefighters carried Glen Rowland, 51, of Newtown and he declined further treatment, The News Times reported. The White Mountain website urges hikers to remember that "when setting out on even the shortest hike that this is a mountain region, subject to rapid weather changes. Please also remember to follow the Hiker's Responsibility Code."

Hikesafe.com states: "A law passed in 2014 authorizes the NH Fish and Game Department to sell a voluntary hike safe card for $25 per person and $35 per family. People who obtain the cards will not be liable to repay rescue costs if they need to be rescued due to negligence on their part, regardless of whether they are hiking, boating, cross country skiing, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity. An individual may still be liable for response expenses, however, if such person is deemed to have recklessly or to have intentionally created a situation requiring an emergency response. The law took effect January 1, 2015."

Read the full News Times story here.

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