Boy Scouts Use ‘Wilderness First Aid’ to Help Injured Counselor After She Fractures Her Ankle on Mountain Hike

A significant incident unfolded on April 18 when a 51-year-old hiking counsellor required urgent medical attention after sustaining a serious injury on New Hampshire’s Mount Chocorua. The woman, identified as Joanne Payne, was part of an outing with six Boy Scouts from Troop 232, based in Nashua, when she fell and fractured her left ankle during their hike on the Champney Falls Trail.

According to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, Payne called for assistance at approximately 1:50 p.m., indicating that she and the Scouts were over three miles from the trailhead’s parking area. The situation quickly escalated as nearby authorities were notified and began their response, which would prove to be no small undertaking.

First responders, including 12 members of the Lakes Region Search and Rescue (LRSR), arrived on the scene shortly before 4:30 p.m. Upon assessment, they found that the Boy Scouts had acted commendably. The troop members were acknowledged for their preparedness in handling the emergency. They had effectively splinted Payne’s fracture and applied ice to manage both swelling and pain while waiting for professional help to arrive.

The rapid intervention by the Scouts was crucial in ensuring Payne remained stable during what could have been a more dire situation. Their actions garnered praise not only from the rescuer teams but also from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, highlighting the importance of youth training in wilderness first aid.

Once the rescue team secured Payne in a litter for transport, they faced the challenge of navigating the rugged terrain. It required a collaborative effort, blending the skills of trained rescuers with the preparedness shown by the young Scouts. They carried her approximately one mile before more efficient transport became available through the use of a litter wheel.

The pace of the rescue was dictated by safety considerations and the condition of the injured woman, with team members prioritising her well-being throughout the journey. By around 8 p.m. local time, the group successfully reached the parking lot where emergency services awaited. Payne was then transported to a hospital in North Conway for further treatment.

The rescue operation lasted more than three hours, an ordeal that underscored the dedication and teamwork displayed by both the Boy Scouts and the rescue personnel. Following the successful rescue, the Lakes Region Search and Rescue team expressed gratitude for the professional and quick response of its members and supporting agencies involved.

This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of outdoor activities and the importance of being prepared. The proactive measures taken by the Boy Scouts not only aided in the immediate care of their counsellor but also showcased the effectiveness of training in wilderness emergencies.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and local rescue teams commend such preparedness, illustrating that knowledge and readiness can significantly mitigate risks during outdoor adventures. The incident at Mount Chocorua reaffirms the vital role played by both professional rescuers and well-prepared individuals in ensuring safety and providing care in challenging situations.