Grundy County EMS and Palmer Fire Department were dispatched to Savage Gulf Trail on Saturday for a rescue operation involving an injured hiker. EMS responded with two ambulances (M1 and M2) and the new side-by-side (SxS) rescue unit.
The SxS was deployed from the staging area and traveled approximately 1.5 miles into the trail. The unit was staffed by three EMS personnel and three Palmer Fire personnel. Additional resources included several Park Rangers. A foot operation continued for an additional 0.5 miles to reach the patient.
Upon arrival, responders located the patient near the creek bed with significant injuries. Crews initiated complete spinal immobilization, provided medical care on the trail, and prepared the patient for transport. The patient was secured to a backboard, placed into a wheeled rescue basket, and transported to the SxS.
The patient was transported by LifeForce to Erlanger Medical Center for advanced care due to the extent of the injuries.
