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ATV Rollover Results in Rescue Operation

2 June 2006

Four agencies were required to care for the immediate needs of five victims involved in an ATV rollover on Sunday, May 28, in northeastern Apple Valley. The accident occurred in an area that was too dangerous to walk or carry victims out, therefore, all victims were hoisted to safety by helicopter. At that time, the victims received immediate medical attention with three of them being airlifted to trauma centers.

Because of the rural area in which the incident occurred, it took nearly 60 minutes to locate the victims before the rescue could proceed. The lesson to be learned for "off-roaders" is to stay within an area that is safe for such activity. Additionally, "off-roaders" should be able to identify their general proximity by advising where they left a paved roadway and what direction they were heading.

Participating in the rescue and medical aid operation were American Medical Response, Apple Valley Fire Protection District, Mercy Air Ambulance and San Bernardino County Sheriff's Aviation Unit.