Medford, OR — A group of dirt bikers who became lost and stranded on a trail near Jacksonville were safely rescued Sunday evening, thanks to quick action by local authorities. According to a news release from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), the riders had been traversing John’s Peak when they encountered trouble. Their dirt bike broke down, and they soon found themselves disoriented and unprepared for the cold, wet conditions.
The riders, who were not dressed for the weather and had no food or water, contacted authorities as their cell phones were rapidly losing battery. In the report, the JCSO noted that the group was “cold and wet, but otherwise unharmed.”
A JCSO Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) deputy, familiar with the area, quickly responded to the call for help. With his knowledge of the trails, the deputy was able to locate the stranded group and guide them to safety.
Following the incident, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office issued a series of safety tips for off-road enthusiasts to help prevent similar situations in the future.
- Have a Plan: Riders should always plan their route and share their itinerary with someone who is not part of the trip. This allows others to alert authorities if the rider does not return as expected.
- Carry a Fully Charged Cell Phone: A charged phone is vital for emergencies. However, riders should also be aware of areas where cellular reception may be spotty or nonexistent and prepare accordingly, possibly with a portable charger.
- Know Your Limits: Off-road conditions can change rapidly, especially in winter. Riders are urged to understand their skill level and the terrain before heading out, as poor weather conditions can quickly make trails more treacherous.
- Retrace Your Steps: If lost, riders should try to retrace their steps back to a main road rather than venturing further into unfamiliar trails. The longer they stay lost, the harder it becomes for rescuers to find them.
JCSO officials emphasized the importance of being well-prepared when venturing into remote areas. While the stranded bikers were fortunate to receive timely help, authorities reminded residents that winter conditions can make off-road travel unpredictable and dangerous.