Houston, B.C. – Searchers braved darkness, frigid temperatures, and strong wind to rescue a stranded trapper on Morice Lake.

Houston RCMP say they received a 911 call from SPOT GPS device at 3:45 Monday afternoon.  Police mobilized Houston Search and Rescue and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to head to the location 85 kilometres southwest of Houston.

After a number of hours, searchers were able to locate the trapper on the shore of the lake.  Police say the man had been thrown from his boat by strong waves and was forced to swim to shore.  Officials say the man was wet, but otherwise in good health.

"This is a great example of an avid outdoorsman who ran into trouble in the wilderness but had the equipment and clothing to keep himself safe until help arrived," says Sergeant Stephen Rose, the Detachment Commander for the Houston-Granisle Detachment. "Moreover, it demonstrates the tenacity of our Search and Rescue group and the willingness of local residents to help emergency services offer help to someone during their time of need. The willingness of local residents to risk their own lives to save another is outstanding!"

RCMP say the trapper showed his appreciation for the rescue team by sharing his breakfast with them.