San Juan County UT Search and Rescue

09/09/2026

08/28/2026

ABT - Always Be Training! This week found the team working on single and multi point anchors and how to set and stabilize them into our Haul and Belay systems for High Angle Rescues.
We hate to get the news someone is trouble, but know we have to be ready when the call comes. Always Be Training.

08/03/2026

Over the past two weeks, San Juan County Search and Rescue volunteers have responded to two separate heat-related medical emergencies—one in the Natural Bridges area and another near the Citadel Trail.

August temperatures in Southeast Utah are extreme, especially during the middle of the day. Exposed slickrock, canyon walls, and high elevation can make conditions feel significantly hotter than the forecast predicts.

If you're heading out into the backcountry, please plan carefully:

Time it Right: Start your hikes at dawn and aim to be off the trail before peak afternoon heat.

Pack Extra Water & Electrolytes: Water alone isn't enough when you're sweating heavily; replenish your salts and minerals.

Know Your Limits: Turn around before half of your water is gone.

Dress for Protection: Wear wide-brimmed hats, light-colored long sleeves, and sunscreen.

Carry Communication: Cell service is sparse to non-existent in many of our wilderness areas. A satellite messenger (like a Garmin InReach, SPOT, or Apple iPhone with satellite texting) can save critical time in an emergency.

Both of these recent missions required close coordination with our partner agencies. We are deeply grateful for these inter-agency relationships—working together allows us to execute safe, efficient rescues and serve our community better. San Juan County EMS, Intermountain Flight & Ambulance Services.

Stay safe, look out for one another, and respect the summer heat!

03/25/2026

San Juan County Search and Rescue stayed busy right out of the gate this week, responding to calls on Sunday and Monday.

On Sunday, our team responded to Looking Glass Rock after a male subject struck the rock while swinging. Due to the terrain and his injuries, he was carefully carried down the hill by SAR members to a waiting helicopter for transport.

On Monday, we were called to the House on Fire Ruin area to assist with a pack-out of an injured female. Tight terrain and steep trails required a full team effort to safely bring her back to the trailhead.

We’d like to share a message from Patrice Showers Corneli, who gave us permission to post her experience:

“On Monday, I was enjoying myself with my husband at the House on Fire Ruin after a beautiful hike. As I leaned over to tighten my shoe, I slipped and landed on my back, hitting my head on a rock. I was unable to sit up due to vertigo, and my husband contacted the sheriff for help.

A team soon arrived, and I was overwhelmed by their professionalism and good-humored care. They carried me out through the steep, rocky trail using a simple canvas chair. Along the way, we even joked about redesigning it to include shoulder straps for these generous volunteers.

I am incredibly grateful for the number of people who showed up and worked so cheerfully to help me. They went above and beyond. Human beings are, after all, wonderful.”
– Patty Corneli

We’re grateful that both individuals are on their way to recovery, and we appreciate the opportunity to serve those in need.

A reminder to everyone heading out to enjoy our public lands: even familiar hikes can present unexpected hazards. Please take your time, watch your footing, and be prepared.

As always, thank you to our dedicated volunteers who continue to show up, step up, and serve our community. Also, another thank you to Intermountain Flight & Ambulance Services for their assistance with both these calls.