Search and Rescue Story: Jerry Smith

 February 6, 2024

Jerry Smith's off-road motorcycle adventure near Moab, Utah, took an unexpected turn, demonstrating the critical importance of being prepared for emergencies, especially in remote areas. His experience, involving a severe accident and a successful rescue operation, underscores the value of SOS satellite devices like SPOT devices and the vital services provided by Overwatch x Rescue.

The Incident

Jerry, an experienced motorcyclist with over five decades of riding under his belt, found himself in a situation he had never encountered before. While navigating Pritchett Canyon, one of Moab's most challenging off-road motorcycle trails, his friend, also an accomplished rider, suffered a severe leg injury.

Jerry recalls, “He was going to basically position one of the inexperienced riders’ bikes, and we were going to just push it up. When he goes to put it in place in a pivot turn, he puts his right foot down in between two rocks. Didn't know it, and he basically twisted his leg, then broke all the bones in the bottom part of his knee.”

The Response

In the face of this emergency, Jerry acted swiftly. He hit the SOS on his SPOT device, knowing the gravity of the situation. His friend also had an InReach satellite communicator, but the SPOT device got the quickest response.

“I hit the SOS,” Jerry says, “and I got the fastest response on the SPOT device. I mean, it was pretty much within a minute, maybe sooner.”

Jerry had received a text asking for details about the emergency. He provided the coordinates and the nature of the injury, initiating a swift and professional response from Overwatch x Rescue.

The Challenges

The location of the incident in Pritchett Canyon posed significant challenges. Jerry explains, “We were in a very difficult location in the canyon. It was very narrow with high walls, I'd say probably 100-to-150-foot walls, and it may have been 50-to-75-feet wide. And, so, not just anything can get in there.” The geographical constraints meant that conventional rescue methods were not feasible.

The Rescue

The response from Overwatch x Rescue was multifaceted. A helicopter arrived first, followed by a rescue team that hiked in. The rescue operation involved moving Jerry's friend over large boulders to the aircraft. Every step was painful for him, but the rescuers were incredibly professional and efficient.

The Aftermath

The incident was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of outdoor adventures and the importance of being prepared. Jerry reflects, “You always think, ‘Well, I got a cell phone with me.’ There was no service there. Zero. And even if you climbed up on top of something, there was still no cell service. We were already believers in the SPOT device, but even more so after using it.”

He praises the responsiveness and thoroughness of the Overwatch x Rescue team, noting their continued communication with their families and their dedication to ensuring that everyone stayed informed throughout the entire rescue process.

The Importance of Overwatch x Rescue

Jerry Smith's story is a powerful testament to the importance of having the right gear and support in remote adventure settings. His experience highlights the importance of Overwatch x Rescue in coordinating effective and timely emergency response in challenging locations. Overwatch x Rescue is an emergency SOS subscription service that is specifically tailored toward helping outdoor adventurers in need. Their comprehensive approach, from the initial distress signal to the ongoing communication with emergency contacts, is indispensable for adventurers who find themselves in perilous situations.

Jerry Smith's encounter in Moab is a vivid reminder of the risks to outdoor adventurers and the critical role of emergency assistance services. It underscores the importance of being equipped with a reliable communication device and the assurance of knowing that the expert help of Overwatch x Rescue is available at the push of a button. Jerry's story is not only about the risks but also the resilience and preparedness that make it possible to safely enjoy the thrills of outdoor exploration.