Firefighters rescue unconscious swimmer from gorge — then hear more calls for help
As rescuers worked to save an unconscious swimmer in “significant medical distress,” a hiker in the gorge ran up to them and said people were yelling for help farther down the trail, New York firefighters say.
Officials originally responded to a report of a distressed swimmer just after 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, at the dam at Six Mile Creek Park, Ithaca Fire Department said in a news release. Firefighters found the unconscious swimmer, who was in need of evacuation.
Rescuers began providing medical care to the person during the complex extraction from the gorge to an ambulance, the fire department said.
As first responders worked to evacuate the swimmer, another hiker alerted them to the second group “yelling for help,” according to the department.
Once the swimmer was secured, firefighters said they began to search for the second group and found a person trapped on a steep slope. Firefighters pulled the person from the slope and escorted the group from the trail’s natural area.
“As the weather becomes sunnier and warmer, IFD would like to remind people to enjoy the gorges and natural areas safely,” the department said. “Stay on trails, don’t swim in unsafe areas, carry a cell phone, and know where you are in case you need to call for help.”
Ithaca is about 60 miles south of Syracuse.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published April 23, 2023 at 12:21 PM with the headline "Firefighters rescue unconscious swimmer from gorge — then hear more calls for help."
