• Rokhsanna Sadeghi, Joseph C Konwinski, and Rita K Cydulka.
• Department of Emergency Medicine, Metrohealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH (Dr Sadeghi). Electronic address: rokhsanna@gmail.com.
• Wilderness Environ Med. 2015 Jun 1; 26 (2): 159-63.

BackgroundThe Adirondack Park is a 6 million acre recreational area in northeastern New York used for activities such as hiking, camping, canoeing, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and rock climbing. Given the large number of people who use the Adirondacks for recreation, there exists the potential for many accidents, injuries, and illnesses to occur in areas ranging from state-operated campgrounds to remote backcountry.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to gain insight into the demographics of search and rescue (SAR) operations in the Adirondack Park.MethodsThis study is a retrospective review of the Adirondack Park Forest Ranger SAR reports from January 1, 2008, through December 31, 2009. Epidemiologic data were gathered from the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation for each report, including victim demographics, incident, reason for injury, medical care needed, preparation of victim, and prior medical conditions.ResultsIn all, 239 SAR missions were carried out involving at least 349 victims. Of all cases, 28% (66) involved an injured victim, and 9% (21) involved illness; 56% (10) of the victims had a known prior illness or medical condition; and 21% (27) of cases were due to victims exceeding their abilities. Of the search missions, 54% of victims (93) had little experience with the activity, and 9% (15) had no experience. Only 43% (62) of victims had any form of orientation equipment.ConclusionsThis study portrays the initial demographics of SAR efforts in Adirondack Park. It will aid in educating people on preparing for wilderness activities, as well as tailoring SAR resources to the demographics of injury and illness within the park.Copyright © 2015 Wilderness Medical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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