PRINEVILLE, OR -- Crook County Search and Rescue responded to a report of another stranded vehicle in the Ochoco National Forest last week. This is the latest in a string of incidents where vehicles ill-equipped for the conditions got stuck in heavy snow.

On Thursday, the SAR team was notified of five people stranded in the Maury Mountains, near the Agate Beds. Nine personnel responded. Emergency responders were able to use cell phone data, placing the subjects on Forest Service RD 1680.

Upon arrival , SAR members found one person walking from the vehicle in an attempt to find help. SAR deployed a specialized side-by-side tracked vehicle and a snowmobile to reach the four remaining people.  After two trips, all were successfully evacuated and transported back to the Prineville area.

Crook County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone:

• Once contact with help has been made, stay with the vehicle.  A vehicle provides shelter, heat, and a fixed location for emergency personnel to respond.  
• If you come to a road that is not maintained during winter months that is a good place to stop and enjoy the scenery.   
• Whenever you are traveling, especially in the mountains, let someone know where you are going, when you will be back, and stick to your plan.
• Please take adequate food, water and warm clothing in case you get stuck regardless of the road conditions.