Columbia firefighters say Sunday morning’s successful rescue of an injured hiker in a wooded area behind Cosmo Park highlights the importance of multi-agency communication, technology and extensive training.
The hiker called 911 at about 11:15 am Sunday to report he or she was injured when they fell while hiking. Columbia firefighters say a CFD battalion chief requested assistance from Boone County Joint Communications (BCJC), which was able to provide the caller’s GPS location that pinged during the 911 call.
Firefighters found and rescued the injured hiker after deploying a utility vehicle (UTV). Columbia fire chief Brian Schaeffer says their communication partners at Joint Communications serve as the true first responder in these situations. He also says firefighters train and are equipped for rescues involving trails, cliffs and heavily wooded areas.
Columbia has more than 60 miles of trails and 3,700 acres of parkland. Cosmo park is Columbia’s largest municipal park.