67 year old man sent to hospital with serious injuries after being rescued in Labrador

(St. John’s, NL) December 17, 2024 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) helped rescue a stranded, injured snowmobiler in Labrador over the weekend.

On Saturday, (Dec. 14) around 1:15 p.m., the RNC received information that an SOS alert had been received by a third party who contacted 911. The co-ordinates of the alert were obtained and the RNC engaged Labrador West Ground Search and Rescue, and paramedics, who all headed to the area of Shabogamo Lake, approximately 35 kilometers east of Labrador City.

The RNC was first on scene and with hypothermia a serious concern, an officer armed with a first aid kit and emergency blankets headed out onto the lake by snowmobile with a good Samaritan who stopped to offer assistance.

The officer provided first aid to an injured 67-year-old male who struck and ice ridge and had serious injuries. Search and rescue crews and paramedics later removed him from the scene aboard a sled and placed him into the waiting ambulance and transported to hospital for treatment.

The success of this rescue highlights the importance of taking steps to prepare for snowmobile trips. The RNC reminds all riders to let someone know where you’re going, your route and when you plan to arrive. Pack appropriate safety equipment, including extra gas, a first-aid kit and a satellite phone where possible. Always wear a helmet, dress for the weather, and do not forget to check the forecast.