Portland Mountain Rescue is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives through rescue and education. Rescue Radio was created to reach a wider audience to prevent emergencies in the greater outdoors.
The Rescue Radio by Portland Mountain Rescue is a captivating podcast that delves into the incredible work of the PMR team. From thrilling rescue missions to insightful interviews, this show keeps listeners engaged and informed about the world of mountain rescue. However, while the content is exceptional, the intro music could use a fresh update to match the energy and excitement of the episodes.
One of the best aspects of The Rescue Radio is its ability to cover important topics that are relevant not only to mountain climbers and outdoor enthusiasts but to anyone looking for lessons in resilience, determination, and teamwork. The podcast's ability to share stories from those directly involved in these high-stakes rescues provides a unique perspective that is both inspiring and educational. It gives listeners a glimpse into the challenges faced by rescuers as they navigate treacherous terrain and make split-second decisions. Additionally, the host does an excellent job of guiding discussions with guests and ensuring that their stories are told with authenticity and respect.
Another commendable aspect of The Rescue Radio is its dedication to sharing a variety of voices on each episode. By featuring different members of the PMR team as well as those who have been rescued or impacted by their work, this podcast offers a well-rounded perspective on mountain rescue efforts. Each story adds depth and nuance to our understanding of what it takes to save lives in precarious situations. Furthermore, the production quality of the show is top-notch, with excellent sound design that immerses listeners in every scene.
Unfortunately, one area where The Rescue Radio could improve is its choice of intro music. While this may seem like a minor detail, having an energetic and captivating opening can set the tone for an entire episode. Currently, the intro music doesn't quite match the exciting nature of the content. Updating it with something more dynamic would help grab listeners' attention right from the start and create a stronger connection between them and the stories being shared.
In conclusion, The Rescue Radio by Portland Mountain Rescue is a must-listen podcast that covers important topics and provides insight into the vital work of the PMR team. Despite its slightly lackluster intro music, the show's content is compelling, educational, and inspiring. The dedication of the host, the PMR team, and the individuals who share their stories shines through in each episode. Keep up the good work, and consider updating that intro music to captivate listeners right from the start!
Eldorado Peak, with its knife edge summit, is one of the most iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest. Our very own PMR member, Marc "Milo" Milobinski is joining Amy Graham and Ania Wiktorowicz to talk about his climb of Eldorado Peak, the accident, rescue and emergency signaling. Sometimes accidents happen in the least expected places that are still far away from cell service. How do you call for help? What options do you have? Is it worth paying for extra gear? www.pmru.org
Chris Erickson was a veteran mountain ranger in Denali when he was faced with a crevasse rescue that was deemed impossible: extricate a fallen climber from a 60 foot depth of a crevasse what was only 12 inches wide on the bottom. His story is a true example or heroism and perseverance that you may only find in rare rescue stories told by seasoned experts. This episode will make you believe in magical outcomes which in fact is the result of human persistence and the belief that every life counts no matter what you need to do to save it. What can you do to prepare for glacier terrain and to avoid falling into a crevasse? Should you rope up? Is it better to ski? When odds of your survival are against you, all you can do it trust your mountain rescue team and hope they are like Chis Erickson and his team who's tenacious fight to save a life will blow your mind.
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari FeherAndrew Holman is a Portland, Or transplant living and climbing around Anchorage, Alaska. In the process of climbing all the peaks of the Chugach Mountain range near Anchorage, one night he found himself tumbling 500 ft on the South side of Avalanche Mountain (5,050 feet) . What do you do with one microspike on a side of a 45 degree icey slope? As a BCEP grad from the Mazamas (an established climbing and mountaineering club in Porland, OR), luckily Andrew knew just what to do and ended up in a helicopter rescue with some friendly humanoid aliens. helpful links: mazamas.orggarmin.comhttps://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-personal-locator-beaconhttps://www.alaska.org/destination/chugach-state-park
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari FeherEric Gagnon has been in Search and Rescue for 25 years. He has been in helicopter rescues for 10 years with King County Sheriff's office in the state of Washington after a start at the Coast Guard. Not only is he a rescue specialist, a hoist operator but currently he is training incoming new members on how to conduct rescues. Having numerous back country helicopter rescues under his belt, he is here to tell us what it takes to be a helicopter rescuer, what the process looks like and what you, as a backcountry enthusiast can do to be most helpful should you find yourself an active participant in an aerial rescue. Helpful links:kingcounty.govnols.eduwildmed.comavtraining.orgamericanavalancheinstitute.comavalanche.org
Created by Mari Feher, Hosted by Ania WiktoroviczIn July of 2022 Jaden Stewart of Gallatin County Sheriff SAR in Montana, Karel Kaiser and their partner set out to summit Mt Rainier in the state of Washington via the Ptarmigan Ridge route. As they started out from their high camp in 30+ miles /hour wind, they noticed a lone headlamp from the party ahead of them giving off SOS signals. At this point, the team knew there would be no summit bid in their day as the terrain became increasingly dire with truck size boulders coming loose as they happened upon a climber with a crushed leg. The saga of their 24 plus hour rescue complete with a Chinook and aided by their Inreach and medical training is fascinating to say the least.
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowitz, Created by Mari FeherWe all have a connection to nature and the mountains. It is unavoidable to experience some stress, trauma or even loss and grief while you are on your favourite pitch or route. How do you cope when you are under stressors? Do you have the necessary tools to overcome this experience or the need to reach out to your community for help? If you ever felt you are alone feeling anxious on a climb and you must be the only one that experiences fear while your partners do not have a shread of doubt, think again. This episode will be very helpful to understand the natural element of fear and how to accept it. Your guide, Tiffany McClean is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, LPC and a therapist at Climbing Grief Fund, a fantastic support organized by the American Alpine Club. Climbing Grief Fund — The American Alpine Club
K9 Rook is a human remains detection K9, a Belgian Malinois that works for the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office along with his handler, Terri Hines. What does Rook do exactly? What is the certification process for your dog to become a SAR dog? How many different kinds of search dogs are out there and how are they trained? If you ever pondered any of these questions or simply love and appreciate working dogs, come and listen to Terri, who will walk you through the process of a K9 training. You may even find out how you can help a search dog train. Rook has his own Instagram:sar_k9_rook
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari FeherIn June of 2022 Sam Kang was leading a 5.6 trad route on Unicorn Peak in the Tatoosh Range in Washington, when a microwave-size rock came loose, sending them to a 25 foot fall, landing face up on the ground. Freak accidents like this can happen to anyone and on routes that you have done a thousand times before. Petra Lebaron-Botts who is a trainee with Portland Mountain Rescue and Roberta Zouain an instructor with the Mazamas were the climbing partners that provided excellent immediate care and aided in the helicopter rescue. Climbers of Color is well known if you are a climber in the Pacific Northwest. Not only Sam Kang is the founder of Corvallis Climbers of Color in Corvallis, Oregon and a pillar of the community but also a solid and experienced climber. If you wish to contribute to their recovery, follow the links below. Sam's Gofundme page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-sam-kangCorvallis Climbers of Color: https://valleyrockgym.com/corvallisclimbersofcolorLinks where you can find courses in first aid and medical training: nols.edumazamas.orgncascades.orgredcross.orgwildmed.orgcascadewildernessmed.comwildsafe.org
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari FeherIn today's episode Ania is talking to Gabe Kitter. He was featured on Garmin.com when his inReach Mini and his trusty friend Steven Jensen saved his life after his 800+ pound snowmobile rolled over him a few times in Cantwell, Alaska. Alaska can be desolate just like many outdoor locations all through the Pacific Northwest. Are you prepared to act if an accident happens when you are cut off from civilization? Are you planning a backcountry trip to Alaska? Make sure you are covering all bases and follow along to see what you can do to be ready when the unforeseen happens to you.Links mentioned in the episode: Garmin.comLifemedalaska.com
Cheri Higman is the first female chair person of Seattle Mountain Rescue, unravelling her first mission that turned into three separate call outs within 24 hours.
Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari FeherDid you know that after an avalanche you, as a back country recreationist are the strongest link in the chain of survival? Heiko Stopsack is a paramedic with the King County Medic 1 and King County Sheriff's Department's Air Support, also a member of Hood River's Crag Rats rescue team. He is here to give you advice on how you, as an observer can be the most valuable asset and strongest aid in the rescue of your team member or friend. Links mentioned in the show: Nols.eduRedcross.orgHeart.orgNationalcprfundation.comCprcare.com
Created by Mari Feher, Hosted by Ania WiktorowiczDale Remsberg is an IFMGA and AMGA mountain guide based in Lafayette, CO. He currently serves as a technical director of the American Mountain Guides Association, which includes instructing and examining young guides. Dale prides himself in high-end skills in all the disciplines and can still be found out cruising on difficult terrains of the Canadian Rockies or Switzerland. Despite his 30 year experience, accidents still happen. Take a listen to what went wrong and how he ended up with two separate helicopter rescues under his belt. You can follow Dale on Instagram at Daleremsberg or at daleremsberg.comSend your trivia responses to rescueradiobypmr@gmail.com for a chance to win PMR swag.
Should Airbags Be Standard Avalanche Safety Equipment? Avalanche Airbags , invented in the 1980s prevent mortality better than avalanche transceivers, but have yet to be widely adopted. Is the price and weight difference worth it to save your life? Absolutely. Come and learn how to use them and where you can get one. PMR's presenter Christopher Van Tilburg, MD talks through the reasons why.Christopher is an accomplished outdoors person and is widely involved with the outdoor and medical community. He works in Hood River at Occupational and Travel Medicine, the Emergency Department, and the Mountain Clinic at Mount Hood Meadows. He is also Public Health Officer for Hood River County and the Medical Director for Crag Rats Mountain Rescue, Portland Mountain Rescue, Clackamas County SAR, and Pacific Northwest SAR. He is author of Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Routes: Oregon.SHOW LESS
Created by Mari Feher, Hosted by Ania WictorowiczSo you like backcountry skiing and mountaineering? If you are a beginner you may stick to known routes but if you do like getting off the heavily traveled areas and find your way through new pow in the backcountry, are you sure you can find your way out? What can you do to ensure you make it out safe without spending a cold and wet night huddled under the shelter of some branches? Do you rely on a compass, an app on your cell phone or try to rely on your memory to find your way ? What if you dropped your phone or the battery dies? What is your next move? John Godino is the unofficial guru of navigation of the Pacific Northwest. He is a former US Forest Service wilderness ranger and wildland firefighter with a Masters degree in geosciences / cartography. While contributing to the new edition of Freedom of the Hills, he is active in the sport of competitive orienteering and have been a volunteer climb leader, navigation and mountaineering instructor at the Mazamas for the past 20 years. He is here to tell you what you can do to ensure you never find yourself in a pickle. Sources mentioned in the show: alpinesavvy.comcaltopo.comgaia.comcroc.orgApps to locate current gps coordinates:mygpscoordinatesmygpslocation
Hosted by: Ania Wiktorowicz Created by: Mari FeherIn 2020 Jake Palazzi had one of those classic rappel accidents. Upon topping out on a five pitch route, Wherever I may roam at Smith Rock in Oregon, he came to a crashing halt after falling a full pitch and rag dolling another 150 ft to the hiker's trail. How did he survive rappelling off the end of his rope? He is here to tell you his miracle of a story and to remind you to always check your knots or use an autoblock before you jump back over that ledge and yell" On rappel".
Created by Mari Feher, Hosted by Ania WiktorowiczOn May 31, 2019 four climbers -- Yevgeniy Krasnitskiy, Ruslan Khasbulatov, Vasily Aushev and Kostya "Constantine" Toporov -- started climbing the hardest, most technical route on Mount Rainier in Washington . High winds that tore up their tent and blew away their gear forced them to stop on the Liberty Ridge route. After spending 5 days on the mountain, the group was rescued on June 6th, suffering from hypothermia and severe frost bite. This rescue is personal for so many in our Pacific North West community. Anyone lucky enough to know Yev knows the deep humility, above human strength and kindness he possesses. Come listen to what went wrong, how good decision making lead to perseverance as well as what pitfalls to avoid while making your plans on your next climb.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczA fire erupted on Sept. 8, 2012, and burned about 26,000 acres, or about 40 square miles at the Pole Creek trailhead. The fire that was caused by lightning cost about $18 million to fight. The surging blaze destroyed four cars at the trailhead in the Three Sisters Wilderness, endangering 30 hikers and campers who had to be rescued out of the forest. One of those climbers was our very own Ania, who just completed a climb to the top on North Sister, a rugged, dangerous mountain on its own. Come, listen to the harrowing story of how Ania and her team run out the fire while trees burst into flames along the way. How did they make it out? By being prepared and by using their rational navigational system. Fire preparedness resources mentioned: insiweb.nwcg.govfire.or.govoregon.gov - Oregon department of environmentalnwcc.gov -North West Interagency Coordination Center
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczAre ice caves the same as glacier caves? Should you be taking your selfie with them or explore them on your own? Did you know that the PNW has one of the few remaining ice caves inside glaciers on our back yard volcanos in the entire country? Eddy Cartaya, the Indiana Jones of Glacier Caving , TED Talk speaker and will give you the scoop of the intimate details of these majestic formations. Cartaya and his climbing partner, Brent McGregor explored the frozen caves created in the Sandy Glacier and in 2011, they identified and explored three caves which they named Snow Dragon, Pure Imagination and Frozen Minotaur. As one of the couple of dozens of glacier cave rescuers in the world, not only does Eddy work with NASA and is a co-founder of Glacier Cave Explorers he is one of the most esteemed members of Portland Mountain Rescue with countless rescues under his belt. Come and listen to Eddy's fascinating, geek-out worthy stories about a part of the world only a few lucky people get to venture to: the belly of the beast.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczHave you ever experienced a whiteout? Imagine 2 feet visibility where you can not even see the steps you've just made, blowing ice, temperatures dropping drastically. Now add, that you are in this whiteout as the last team up, close to the summit of Mt Hood with extreme angles below you, with the danger of your next wondering step possibly taking you into a crevasse or down into a fumarole. How do you save yourself? Luckily for our next rescuees, Portland Mountain Rescue's team members are always ready to face a challenge even if it sometimes comes to a non-in person rescue.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczTom Gall, one of Portland Mountain Rescue's Rescue Leader takes you down to the Grand Canyon where a canyoneering trip when horribly wrong. Tom's years of experience as a 20 year PMR veteran, a fire lieutenant and as a paramedic came in handy to control the situation and organize an aerial evacuation. As a bonus, he will also share a story of a cross country skiing outing turning into a midnight rescue in the frozen Mt Hood forest, where being prepared for anything literally saved a friend's life. Do you want to know what was in his pack? Come and listen to the stories.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczHave you ever wondered how long it is and what it takes to complete a full rescue? Ania is picking the brains of Clackamas County Sheriff's SAR Deputy Scott Meyers and PMR's rescue leader Chris Baker. See the entire time line, the technical support system of a rescue as well as hear some interesting stories. https://www.clackamas.us/sheriffwww.pmru.org
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczPMR is recruiting! Every 2 years Portland Mountain Rescue holds try outs for new members and the time has come for you to apply if you were ever interested in belonging to one of the most advanced rescue unit on the West Coast. Come and listen to the ins and outs of the application and try out process. As a member, you'll have access to a wealth knowledge and skills along with finding life long partners and friends. Our community is one of the most inviting, inclusive and supportive group of well respected experts. We invite women and people of diverse backgrounds and cultures to apply specifically. The strength of a unit comes from a diversity of its members' various talents and inputs. If you think you may not have the skills to qualify, come and listen and allow Dave Sherman and Ben Swerdlow talk you into filling out that application. Come and join us saving lives!
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczNWAC's own Peter Moore avalanche specialist gives you an insight into avalanches on Mt Hood. Avalanche science, weather and preparedness is the center points of this interview. If you are a beginner in the backcountry and need advice on how and where to look for information and avalanche safety equipment, Peter will walk you though the use of the NWAC website as well as giving you several pointers in acquiring current data. NWAC.USAvalanche.orgcaltopo.comavalancheassociation.cawcc.nrcs.gov
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczCan you survive falling into a fumarole? There are very few people that can claim such fame. May 24th, 2014 was the last climb on Mt Hood for Mike Adams. Take a listen to his story as there are not many that live to tell the tale. As always, PMR walks you through what to do to avoid getting yourself into the belly of the mountain and what are your best chances to survive.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczWhat is Psychological First Aid? Whether you are affected by the pandemic, you've suffered an accident in the outdoors and it limits you from doing the things you love, many of us are having extra stress in our lives nowadays. When the level of stress exceeds what that person can cope with is when one develops a stress injury. Learn how to notice the symptoms, how to diffuse it and how to recover from it so you can get back to the life you love, return to climbing and get back on that mountain trail. Pearce Beissinger is Portland Mountain Rescues leader of PFA as well as our Assistant Medical Director. He is here to help you get back to that summit. Follow these links for additional information: https://www.responderalliance.com/https://mazamas.org/https://americanalpineclub.org/
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczOn May 30th, 2002 9 members of a climbing party fell into a crevasse on the South side of Mt Hood. The well televised rescue is bought to you by one of our 25 year veteran rescuer Steve Rollins, who was on scene when a rescue helicopter crashed into the side of the mountain. The rescue made it into the national news due to its complexity and severity. Take a listen to the harrowing account of the events unfolded.
Created by: Mari Feher, Hosted by: Ania WiktorowiczMemorial Day weekend in 2020 was a very busy weekend for Portland Mountain Rescue. PMR was already on a standby knowing that people tired of the pandemic lockdown would head to the hills. On Friday, May 22nd a rescue call came in about a lost snowboarder that got stranded in whiteout conditions on Mt Hood. The rescue took over 17 hours, 2 different rescue companies and 15 rescuers from PMR. Here is the account of what happened both from the rescuee and the rescuer's point of view. Have a listen.
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