New York State Forest Rangers responded to multiple emergencies across the state this past week, including two searches for missing children and a dramatic river rescue in the Adirondacks.
On June 6, Forest Rangers helped rescue a 61-year-old angler who had fallen down a 20-foot embankment into the Ausable River near Whiteface Mountain. Using an inflatable kayak, rescuers brought the injured man—who suffered a broken leg—to safety with assistance from the Wilmington Fire Department.
A day earlier, on June 5, five Rangers joined local agencies in Delaware County to search for a missing three-year-old who had run into the woods. Volunteers found the child safe about one mile away from where they were last seen.
In Hamilton County, Forest Rangers responded to two additional searches. On June 7, a 72-year-old was found safe near the Hudson River after being reported missing near OK Slip Falls. On June 8, Rangers located a 76-year-old with dementia who had gone missing in the Siamese Ponds Wilderness.
Forest Rangers also conducted swiftwater rescue training on Esopus Creek, educated hundreds of students on wildland fire safety at a field day in Steuben County, and carried out prescribed burns in Albany and Suffolk counties to reduce wildfire risk and improve wildlife habitat.
“Whether conducting a search and rescue call or responding to a wildfire burning out of control, Rangers are always ready when emergencies strike,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton.
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