by Stridergdm » Dec 19, 2006 8:51 pm
We had a similar incident here with a rescue in NYS, the state flew in cavers from West Virginia (or was it Virginia, I forget) and basically stranded them here.
In any case, this is always a question that comes up with rescues like this.
From all accounts these gentleman were very experienced, knew the risks and did a lot to mitigate them.
But, "stuff happens", even to the best people. (though one can ask "does it matter how experienced they are? Do we abandon folks because they were "stupid"? I'd think not.)
I don't think anyone in good consciousness would simply say "abandon them". Yet obviously at some point those decisions need to be made.
One of the reasons I got involved in the NCRC and rescue was because I was called into a rescue and it dawned on me that *I* could be the one in the cave. And I'd want someone to try to haul my butt out. So it was only fair to return the favor. I'd highly recommend everyone here take at least a local OCR course. And look up your local rescue agencies. Be involved. It's not necessary that every caver out there have taken Levels 1-3 (though it can be lots of fun in addition to being very educational), but having some experience does help.
On a related note, one thing you'll learn at an OCR or weeklong and most Agency folks here already know is that part of the system used to coordinate rescues like these is dedicated directly to Finance. And those costs add up quickly. In a case like this figure you've got salaries, fuel costs, replacement parts for helicopters air time gets expensivein those beasts), toilets, hot packs, paper, pens, batteries, etc.
Fortunately for us, here in America can afford to consume large sums (in the millions) to try to safe a live.
And to end the families of these men are in my prayers. I hope for the safe return of the remaining two.