What To Do if Something Goes Wrong
Most rescues end well when hikers stay calm, stay put, and make themselves easy to find.
Emergency: call 911
Summit County Search and Rescue is dispatched through the Summit County Sheriff's Office. Calling 911 is the fastest way to reach them. Non-emergency dispatch: 435-615-3500.
Stop and stay calm
Remember S.T.O.P.: Stop, Think, Observe, Plan. Panic causes most bad decisions. Sit down, drink water, eat something.
If you're lost, stay put
Searchers find people faster when they stay in one place. Move only if you're in danger or know exactly where the trail is.
Call 911 if you can
Even with no bars, try 911; calls can sometimes reach any carrier's tower. Texting 911 may work when a call won't. Climb to higher ground for signal.
Use your satellite device
If you carry a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon, activate SOS. It sends your location to rescuers.
Lightning
Get off peaks and ridges right away. Move to lower, forested ground, avoid lone trees and water, and spread your group out.
Injury or altitude sickness
Treat with your first-aid kit and keep the person warm. For altitude sickness (headache, nausea, confusion), descend. Going down is the cure.
Be visible and stay warm
Wear bright layers, use a whistle (three blasts means help), and use a headlamp or phone light at night. Get out of the wind and insulate from the ground.
Get a Utah Search & Rescue Card
The Utah Search and Rescue Assistance Card helps fund county SAR teams and reimburses rescue costs for cardholders.
Get a card at secure.utah.gov →