Teton County Search and Rescue was awarded $75,000 from a local organization to purchase a rapid response rescue truck. The Teton Ridge Ranch Foundation awarded to the money to “significantly improve the team’s ability to reach people in distress when every minute counts.” According to a news release from The Teton Ridge Ranch Foundation, Teton County Search and Rescue has seen its mission load nearly triple over the last five years, rising from eight to 21 rescues annually.
“Winter accounts for almost half of all calls, when deep snow, tight trailheads, and limited parking slow deployment,” the release states. “The new truck directly addresses these challenges by allowing rescuers to move faster and more safely into the backcountry.” The rapid response unit can carry two snowmobiles, volunteer rescuers and lifesaving medical equipment, eliminating delays caused by connecting and maneuvering tow-behind trailers.
“Its compact flat-deck design allows crews to access rugged or congested trailheads where trailers struggle, speeding time to the scene and improving patient survival,” the release states. “The truck will serve as a dedicated quick response platform for the 34 trained volunteer rescuers who are on call every hour, every day of the year.”
