A medical call at Raven Cliffs Trailhead in northern White County on Sunday required personnel from four counties and more than six hours to complete.
The medical assist call reporting a female patient experiencing nausea and lethargy was received by White County 9-1-1 about 11:30 a.m.
The first team reached the patient and began assessment just before 12:45 p.m. at the top of the falls.
“The patient was in a difficult location to access and the patient’s condition was going to provide rescuers with significant challenges,” said White County Public Safety Director David Murphy in a statement. “Due to weather conditions, it was unsure if aircraft could be used to assist in the removing the patient from the top of the falls.”
Helen Fire, White County Community Emergency Response Team, White County Stations 3 and 7, and White County Emergency Medical Services responded.
Mutual aid from Lee Arrendale State Prison Fire Department with six personnel, Towns County Fire with four personnel, Union County Fire with four personnel and Habersham County with one person responded to assist.
In all, approximately 30 personnel were involved in the rescue.
“Luckily, after a period of time, weather cleared and GSP Aviation was able to lift the patient from the falls to an awaiting ambulance,” Murphy said.
The woman was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center for treatment, with the last responder teams exiting the woods and trail just after 6 p.m.
Murphy shared words of caution for those planning outdoor activities to rugged terrain in the area.
“It is extremely important to know the area in which you plan to hike and be prepared for any emergencies that could occur,” Murphy said. “In our wilderness areas, there is danger of all types, and while we enjoy having visitors to our area to enjoy the beauty, all need to be mindful of the rugged terrain and sometimes extreme conditions to which one may encounter. These incidents take several personnel, specialized equipment and training, and lengthy manhours to complete.”
