Should Hikers Be Billed for Rescue Operations?

The number of mountain rescues required around the areas of Mt. St. Helens has seen a notable rise, particularly when considering the risks some individuals partake in prior to seeking assistance.

A young man of 21 years chose to kayak over a waterfall, resulting in a spinal injury, while a 54-year-old woman suffered a head injury after descending a snow-covered slope and hitting a rock.

Each of these incidents in May necessitated extensive efforts, lasting around six hours in a remote mountainous region. Consequently, a local sheriff is contemplating sending the most reckless individuals a bill for their rescue.

The proposal would require a new local law in Skamania County, where individuals could be fined for reckless or negligent actions that lead to a rescue mission, particularly in this sparsely populated region of Washington housing Mt. St. Helens.

Sheriff Summer Scheyer stated the necessity of finding innovative ways to discourage hazardous behavior and to recover the county's financial losses. Although still under consideration, the policy would serve as a deterrent to those engaging in exceptionally risky deeds.

Comparatively, May saw a sharp increase in search-and-rescue activities in Skamania County from the previous year, with operations spanning from four to nine hours to achieve successful rescues.

This issue is not unique to Washington, as similar measures are being considered elsewhere. For instance, Garfield County in southern Utah recently mandated permits for accessing certain slot canyons, prompted by a similar surge in rescue missions.

Across the United States, the number of rescue operations in national parks is staggering, reaching 3,308 this year alone. These operations vary from reuniting lost children with their parents to navigating challenging terrains to locate lost hikers.

The notion of charging individuals for their rescue due to irresponsible actions isn't new. New Hampshire, for example, implemented a system where those needing rescue may have to cover the costs, which can be avoided through the purchase of 'Hike Safe Cards.'

A notable incident involved two hikers inadequately prepared for harsh winter conditions in January, resulting in a rescue operation. Despite forecasts of inclement weather, they went off the designated trails, highlighting the need for better preparedness and decision-making.

In another situation from 2013 in Orange County, California, a large-scale rescue endeavor was initiated for two missing hikers eventually linked to an illegal substance found in their vehicle. This case prompted a call for the duo to repay the significant rescue costs incurred.

Subsequently, California legislated in 2015 that allows county authorities to seek compensation for rescue costs when extraordinary measures are used due to actions that resulted in criminal convictions. However, limitations apply based on the financial ability of the rescued individuals and the felony status.

In spite of such legislative measures, organizations dedicated to search and rescue, such as the Mountain Rescue Association, oppose charging fees for rescues, fearing that it could deter individuals from promptly seeking necessary help.

These organizations emphasize that most rescues are executed by skilled volunteer teams and emphasize the importance of mitigation strategies rather than financial penalties as a means to manage risky outdoor behaviors.