Group of snowmobilers rescued from North Okanagan backcountry

Vernon Search and Rescue volunteers were out in force last night rescuing a group of snowmobilers.

Members of the rescue organization pulled a group of snowmobilers out of the backcountry west of Mabel Lake last night,Feb. 12.

They were called by the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP to rescue the group of snowmobilers, according to a social media post.

The group of sledders had become stuck in a drainage in the Tsuius Creek area west of Mabel Lake and activated a satellite communicator to call for help.

With help from members of the Lumby Mabel Lake Lake Snowmobile Association, the snowmobilers were located and rescued.

READ MORE: Snow bikers rescued from North Okanagan backcountry

"Our subjects were cold and wet but otherwise uninjured," Vernon Search and Rescue said in the post.

The rescue organization is encouraging the use of satellite communicators.

"When we respond to calls for help from these devices our job is easier, faster and has a higher probability of a positive outcome," Vernon Search and Rescue said. "Satellite signals can at times be blocked in steep terrain, once you find a secure signal stay in that location. Subject and rescuer safety is enhanced by staying in one place."

Vernon Search and Rescue Society was founded in 1960 and is made up of more than 60 volunteer members who conduct between 60 and 80 rescues per year, 24 hours a day seven days a week. There is no charge for search and rescue.

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