Spring break outdoor recreationists urged to be prepared

By Logan Bagett on Monday, March 21st, 2022 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

GRANT COUNTY – Spring Break is underway, and many people often travel to Grant County for its vast outdoor recreation opportunities. There’s still plenty of snow in the higher elevations (and mud pretty much everywhere), and Search and Rescue volunteers spend countless hours rescuing those who end up with their vehicle stuck in some of the most remote parts of the region.

Grant County Search and Rescue Coordinator and Forest Deputy Dave Dobler was on KJDY’s Coffee Time, and when asked how he thinks people can be better prepared to avoid getting stuck, here’s what he said:

“-Being prepared with chains that fit. It’s real easy to change the size of your tires and not realize your chains don’t fit.

-Also having a good shovel—one that can is going to be sturdy and isn’t going to break, something like that.

-The right kind of clothing. So, when it gets dark here, the temperature can drop considerably.

-A good pair of gloves, because if you’re trying to dig out with snow and ice and your hand get cold, you’re really going to have a challenge.

-And being able to start a fire if you have to warm yourself.”

Deputy Dobler also mentioned it’s critical that you have a plan, inform someone of where you’re going and what you’re doing, and then stick to that plan.