Chaffee County Search and Rescue-South (CCSAR-S) located a 58-year-old Swissvale man who became stranded near the Blank’s Cabin trailhead Sunday afternoon.  A neighbor in Swissvale notified the Chaffee County Communications Center Sunday evening that Dale Lee had failed to return home after taking three dogs for a walk Sunday afternoon.

Seven rescuers from CCSAR-S along with a deputy from the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office participated in the rescue which began at 3:30am Monday morning.  CCSAR-S mobilized with four 4-wheel drive vehicles and two snowmobiles and located Lee on Placer Creek Rd. at about daybreak Monday morning.  Lee had become stuck in his vehicle on the snow covered road.  Two snowmobilers from CCSAR-S located Lee and were able to dig his vehicle out of the snow, allowing him to drive out.  Roads in the Blank’s Cabin area are snow covered and not suitable for passenger vehicles at this time.

CCSAR-S would like to remind everyone planning a hike to bring plenty of food, water, clothing and safety equipment for every outing.  If you do become lost, stay in one place if possible to allow rescuers to come to you.  More information on what to bring can be found at http://chaffeesarsouth.org.