Whatcom County Search & Rescue Council

This week we were called to rescue a family that got stuck in the snow on a mountain road. They did a lot of things right, which kept them safe until help arrived. They had food, water, blankets, enough fuel to run the vehicle and heater, tire chains, and such. They stayed with the vehicle until help arrived, even though that is often a very long wait.

We've had an uptick in calls recently for people stranded on mountain roads in the snow or ice. We would like to remind folks to travel in groups. Always have at least one other vehicle with you in case you find trouble. Pack enough supplies (10 essentials) to stay overnight if needed. Tell someone where you're going when you expect to be home. If possible, carry a device capable of satellite texting. 911 can receive texts.

Feel free to comment your must haves in your rig when going out to explore. We love more ideas and sharing stories. We will not tolerate negative or degrading comments towards people that we assist or rescue.

The is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the disappearance of Besalynn Mary James, a tribal member who was last seen on January 20, 2025, at her residence in Bellingham, Washington, on the Lummi Nation Indian Reservation: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/besalynn-mary-james

It was great to work with so many talented rescue teams.