CORRECTION: A previous version of this story included Wolfe County Search and Rescue. They were canceled from the call. The error has been corrected. (Jan. 17, 2024)

STANTON, Ky. — Four college students were stuck on Courthouse Rock in the Red River Gorge on Monday after they were surprised by a Sunday night snowstorm. Rescuers involved with the successful mission reflect on staying safe while venturing outdoors during this time of year.

What You Need To Know

  • On Monday, four campers were stuck on Courthouse Rock in the Red River Gorge following a snowstorm during Sunday evening

  • Several agencies were involved with rescuing the stranded college students

  • After evaluating the situation and seeing no other option, a helicopter was used to successfully rescue them

  • Rescuers involved with the mission say that people who plan to spend time outdoors during the winter months should prepare and take certain precautions

Several organizations were involved with the rescue, including the Kentucky State Police, Powell County Search and Rescue, RedSTAR Wilderness EMS, Powell County EMS and Middlefork Fire Department. Because of the conditions, a helicopter was ultimately used for this mission after exhausting all other options.

“You’re taking lots of subsections of specialties and bringing them together for a common good and the ability to work and act in interagency cooperation through multi-agency coordination is paramount for a successful rescue,” said Jeremy Urekew, a rescue specialist with the Powell County Search and Rescue team. He was involved with the rescue on Monday.

Some of the equipment Jeremy Urekew takes with him on rescue missions. (Spectrum News 1/Geraldine Torrellas)

Both Urekew and David Fifer, who was also part of the rescue effort, have advice on how to stay safe when spending time in nature during the winter months. Some things include having layers of clothing and proper equipment, telling someone where you’ll be and what time they should expect you to return, and checking the forecast soon before your trip.

“People just need to be flexible in doing so,” said Fifer. “Don’t get overly committed to one specific kind of adventure. There’s lots of ways to have fun, have a good time. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the wilderness year-round, in all sorts of weather conditions, as long as you’re prepared for them.”

While the students have been getting a lot of criticism, they did check the forecast and did not see snow. Urekew commended them for making the decision to call for help rather than try to climb down from where they were and risk injury, which would have ultimately made the rescue much more difficult.

Related Stories