Skamania County, WA – A coordinated rescue effort brought a hiker safely off Dog Mountain on Saturday after a medical emergency near the summit prompted a response from multiple emergency agencies.
According to the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred Saturday, Aug. 1, when the county’s communications center received a 911 call from a hiker requesting medical assistance near the summit of Dog Mountain in Skamania County.
Because of the remote location and the reported severity of the medical emergency, the Sheriff’s Office activated its Search and Rescue mission to help Skamania County Emergency Medical Services reach the patient. Members of the Silver Star Search and Rescue Team also responded.
EMS personnel hiked to the patient’s location carrying specialized medical equipment. After reaching the hiker, responders conducted a medical assessment and provided treatment before determining the patient was able to safely descend the trail with assistance from EMS and Search and Rescue personnel.
Once the group reached the trailhead, the patient underwent an additional medical evaluation by EMS. Officials did not release the patient’s identity or provide details about the medical condition.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked volunteers from the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team, the Silver Star Search and Rescue Team, and Skamania County EMS for their coordinated response and professionalism during the incident.
With summer recreation continuing across the Columbia River Gorge, officials are reminding hikers to plan ahead before entering remote areas. They recommend carrying adequate water, food, weather-appropriate clothing, navigation and communication devices, and informing a trusted person of hiking plans and expected return times. Visitors are also encouraged to assess their physical abilities before beginning a hike.
