On Friday, October 18, 2024, SAR received a call at 14:53 hrs. stating that 2 people were snowed in on an ATV in the Brian Head area. Further information was received that it was 2 men who were riding an ATV on the Summit Canyon Road headed to Brian Head when they encountered snow that was nearly 1 foot deep. Visibility was poor and temperatures had dropped. Due to the recent wind storm they came upon fallen trees that they could not move and were unable to turn around. Once they realized their options and knowing that they were in trouble, they called 911.
SAR responded with 2 trucks, 2 enclosed and heated side by sides, 1 Jeep, and 2 snowmobiles. Due to the winter weather, we did not know what we would encounter and had to plan accordingly. As SAR made its way into the area from Brian Head they encountered 5-6 fallen trees and were able to cut through and make their way to the stranded victims. Once SAR arrived it was noted that the subjects had not come prepared for the cold and were huddled around the exhaust in an effort to stay warm. The victims were transported out to safety in the heated enclosed side-by-side while SAR members drove the open cab ATV that belonged to the men out of the area. Everyone arrived safely out of the area and the call was closed at 18:30 hrs.
Iron County SAR would like to remind everyone that during the fall and winter months, weather patterns are sometimes unpredictable and if you venture into the higher elevations, it is very important that you are prepared for the sudden changes that can occur, including having proper clothing, food and water and ways to stay warm.
