Utah County first responders prepare for busy season

PROVO — Utah County search and rescue teams and first responders are undergoing some critical training as they prepare to kick off the busy season in mountain rescues.

They say Memorial Day weekend is always the kickoff for them as the weather warms and huge crowds head into the mountains to get away from city life.

That's why, along the Provo River, search and rescue teams and first responders in Utah County are doing some critical swift water training, just in case the unthinkable happens.

"This is super important to get these guys trained, so they can be ready to respond," said instructor Josh Hickens with Wasatch Technical Rescue Training. "Very critical. We've had too many instances in the last few years where people are not paying attention to the riverside."

Sadly, it was just last year that a 12-year-old boy lost his life after being swept away down the Provo River while his family visited the popular Bridal Veil Falls, one of the hot spots that Utah County search and rescue teams end up coming to often.

"It's a beautiful falls. It's an easy access on the Provo River trail," said Sgt. Dallin Turner with Utah County Search and Rescue. "Those rocks are always wet, and sometimes they have some moss growing on them and they are just slippery, and they are not prepared for that with the proper footwear."

Another group training for the rush along the Provo River is Pro Rafting Tours, which is expecting huge crowds as the days warm up.

"Just doing some early-season training with all the new guides. Sun's out, starting to get warm. It's a great day out," said Ian Wells with Pro Rafting Tours.

His advice for those wanting to enjoy the Provo River: "Big one is wear a life jacket. There is a fine if you don't have one. Rangers will patrol on the holidays."

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