Key Takeaways
- Two walkers were rescued by Mountain Rescue Teams after one of them suffered a knee injury near Dovestones, Saddleworth Moor
- The walkers were found shivering in cold and wet conditions and were rescued using an anchored rope and a stretcher
- The rescue mission took around four hours to complete
- The Oldham Mountain Rescue Team responded to the emergency incident on the evening of December 21
- The team used specialist equipment and techniques to safely transport the injured walker down a steep and rocky path
Introduction to the Incident
Two walkers were found shivering in cold and wet conditions by rescue teams after one of them suffered a knee injury near Dovestones, a popular area near Saddleworth Moor. The incident occurred on the evening of December 21, and Mountain Rescue Teams were scrambled to respond to the emergency. The walkers were located near Birchen Clough, and the rescue team was able to reach them shortly after. The Oldham Mountain Rescue Team, who were involved in the rescue, reported that the walkers were found in a state of distress, suffering from the cold and wet conditions.
The Rescue Operation
The rescue operation was a complex and challenging one, requiring the use of specialist equipment and techniques. The Oldham Mountain Rescue Team used an anchored rope and a stretcher to transport the injured walker down a steep and rocky path. The team had to navigate difficult terrain, including rocky sections and a river, to reach the control vehicle and eventually a waiting ambulance. The uninjured walker was also supported by team members as they made their way down the path, and was able to warm up in the control vehicle. The rescue mission took around four hours to complete, and the team had to work together to ensure the safe transportation of the injured walker.
Challenges Faced by the Rescue Team
The rescue team faced several challenges during the operation, including the difficult terrain and the cold and wet conditions. The team had to use frequent use of two lines of mountain rescue volunteers to safely pass the stretcher over rocky sections, along with an anchored safety rope as a backup. This required careful planning and execution, and the team had to work together to ensure the safe transportation of the injured walker. The team also had to contend with the fact that the exact location of the walkers was initially unclear, which made it difficult to deploy the team to the correct location.
The Importance of Teamwork and Determination
The successful rescue of the two walkers is a testament to the importance of teamwork and determination. The Oldham Mountain Rescue Team worked together to respond to the emergency, using their specialist skills and equipment to transport the injured walker to safety. The team’s update on social media thanked everyone involved for their teamwork and determination in tough conditions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and perseverance in emergency situations. The rescue mission was a complex and challenging one, but the team’s ability to work together and use their skills and equipment effectively ensured a successful outcome.
Conclusion and Reflection
The rescue of the two walkers near Dovestones is a reminder of the importance of being prepared and aware of the risks when walking in remote and challenging terrain. The incident highlights the importance of having the right equipment and skills, as well as knowing what to do in an emergency situation. The Oldham Mountain Rescue Team’s response to the incident demonstrates the value of specialist rescue teams and the importance of teamwork and determination in emergency situations. The team’s use of specialist equipment and techniques, combined with their careful planning and execution, ensured the safe transportation of the injured walker and a successful outcome to the rescue mission.
