Motorists Rescued In Northern Storm

Wednesday, January 10, 2007 07:03 PM

No serious injuries have been reported after a violent snow storm stranded motorists in the Dawson Creek area forcing them to take shelter in their vehciles along Braden Rd.

Rescue operations resulted in a total of 27 vehicles located and 35 people
evacuated on the Braden Road. No injuries were reported and all individuals were
sent home.

A helicopter was used to search surrounding roads to ensure all vehicles have
been identified.

Six other stranded vehicles were located as a result of the
search in the Tower Lake and Rolla area. Ten additional people were located in
these vehicles. There were no injuries reported.

Some vehicles remain on the Braden Road. Caribou Road Services is continuing to
clear the road to allow for removal of the remaining vehicles. Braden Road
remains closed at this time.

During the rescue operation, thirty-seven Search and Rescue personnel worked
from a command post established at the Alaska Highway and Braden Road juncture.
BC Ambulance and RCMP were also on site.

A 10-person Nodwell tracked vehicle was involved in the search supported by
seven snowmobiles.

Highways maintenance crews also searched from the south at the juncture of
Braden and Highway 97.

A warming centre established at Farmington Hill Community Hall was not utilized
and has been closed.

It is recommended that during winter storm conditions, if a person becomes
stranded in a motor vehicle:

- periodically run your vehicle to stay warm,
- keep a window slightly open to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning,
- if you have a cell phone, call 911 to let personnel know where you are, how
many people are with you and your current situation.