Crime & Safety
Unprepared Florida Hiking Group Could Face Rescue Costs
Hikers from Estero, FL call for help on a trail in Lincoln, NH. Fish and Game said the hikers were not prepared with water or flashlights.
LINCOLN, NH - New Hampshire Fish and Game responded to assist hikers who they say were unprepared for a hike in the mountains of New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Fish & Game Department was notified of a group of hikers that were in distress about 1.3 miles up the Old Bridle Path in Lincoln Monday at about 11:00 p.m.. Aaron Woronowski, 43, and Kristine Woronowski, 43 both from Estero, FL were hiking with their two children when they called 911 for help.
The group was hiking the Falling Waters – Old Bridle Path Loop but had significantly underestimated the time it would take them to complete according to Fish and Game Sgt Heidi Murphy.
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A member of the hiking group was severely fatigued, and they were without water, or light sources to see the trail in the dark. After considering the challenges faced by the group it was decided to mount a rescue effort. A Conservation Officer with the New Hampshire Fish & Game Department responded to provide lights and ensure the group made it to the trailhead safely.
The distressed group met with a few Good Samaritan hikers who were also descending Old Bridle Path that provided them with some lights, water, and physical assistance to start moving. The Conservation Officer reached the entire group at 12:30 am Tuesday, and issued out more lights as well as some hydration items. The group continued their descent, with the hikers who called for help safely reaching the trailhead just before 2:00 am. Due to the unpreparedness of the hikers, the NH Fish and Game will be recommending that the family be billed for this preventable rescue.
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Conservation Officers remind everyone planning to enjoy the outdoors this summer to think ahead and make safe decisions. The White Mountains are rugged and unforgiving. Planning ahead by researching trails, preparing enough equipment and supplies, and weighing one’s experience and abilities is necessary to successfully complete any hike. A proper plan not only includes planning for the day’s activities but also providing yourself equipment if a longer hike is necessary. Please visit http://www.hikesafe.com/ for more information.
