Hiker's Fall From Okemo Fire Tower Requires Complicated Rescue Effort
No information has been shared regarding the hiker's condition at the time of this report.
LUDLOW, VT — A complex and well-coordinated rescue operation unfolded Sunday afternoon at the Okemo fire tower, drawing in emergency personnel from five area departments after a hiker was reported injured.
At approximately 3:15 p.m., the Ludlow Fire Department was dispatched to assist Ludlow Ambulance Service following reports that a person had fallen at the base of the Okemo fire tower. Upon arrival, first responders quickly learned the injured individual was actually at the top of the tower, prompting additional rescue resources.
Recognizing the need for technical rescue capabilities, Chester Fire Department was called in with their rope rescue team. Proctorsville Volunteer Fire Department was tasked with setting up a helicopter landing zone in case air transport was necessary, and Mount Holly Fire Department responded with personnel and off-road equipment to help reach the remote site.
The location posed significant challenges. Ambulance crews hiked approximately one mile to reach the patient, who was later found at the base of the tower. Ludlow Fire personnel arrived with a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) and technical rescue equipment, establishing a low-angle rope system to assist with the patient’s removal.
Mount Holly firefighters worked alongside Ludlow crews to package the patient for transport. When Chester’s rope team arrived, the patient was moved in a Stokes basket to the Mount Holly UTV, which then carried the individual to the waiting Ludlow ambulance.
Ludlow Police Department also responded and assisted with patient care at the scene.
After the successful extrication, Ludlow and Chester technical rescue teams remained at the tower for a debrief, using the opportunity to discuss alternate strategies for future rescues involving a patient located at the top of the tower.
“This incident was accomplished as a coordinated effort by all departments involved,” Ludlow Fire officials said in a statement. “We thank them for the mutual aid and teamwork they continue to provide.”
No further information about the patient’s condition was immediately available
.