DCSO Search & Rescue Assists Injured Snow Shoer
Location: Dutchman Snow Shoe Trail, near Todd Lake, about 1/3 mile north of Cascade Lakes Hwy
Injured Snow Shoer: Jensen, Mardi 67 year old female, Bend, OR

On 01/07/15, at about 1:21pm, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue received a request to assist an injured snow shoer in the area of Todd Lake. Ms. Jensen had been snow shoe recreating with a group on Dutchman Snow Shoe Trail, near Todd Lake, approximately 1/3 of a mile north of the Cascade Lakes Highway. Ms. Jensen experienced a non-life threatening injury which left her unable to snow shoe back to her starting point at the Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center.

DCSO Deputies were assisted by six DCSO Search and Rescue Volunteers. Four of the volunteers were deployed, operating two snow mobiles and two track ATV’s. Ms. Jensen’s group was located and they were transported back to their vehicles, stationed at the Nordic Center, where they declined any further medical treatment or assistance.

Ms. Jensen had the appropriate clothing and supplies and was recreating with a group, which is always recommended. Once cell phone communications were acquired her group also correctly remained in the same location, which simplified the mission for Search and Rescue Volunteers. DCSO Search and Rescue would like to remind our back country enthusiasts that although you cannot always control problems that arise, you should always be prepared with the appropriate clothing and supplies. Ten essential systems to consider providing for are:

  • Navigation-map, GPS, cell phone, compass, etc.
  • Sun Protection-sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, etc.
  • Insulation-appropriate layered clothing
  • Illumination-headlamp, flashlight, extra batteries
  • First-Aid Supplies-basic supplies and any current medications
  • Fire-waterproof matches, butane lighter, etc.
  • Repair Kit/Tools-multi-tool, duct tape, etc.
  • Nutrition-high energy, no-cook foods
  • Hydration-extra water
  • Emergency Shelter-space blanket, bright plastic tarp, large plastic trash bags