While volunteers are prepared to drop what they’re doing and respond to a call at a moment’s notice, the unfortunate reality is that rescues take time. Coordination between NH Fish & Game and Search and Rescue Teams will be followed by a call out to volunteer teams if they are needed, who in turn will need to go from wherever they are in towns across the Pemi Valley region to the trailhead, and then hike out on foot to the individual in need of rescue. From the time you call 9-1-1, it may take several hours for rescue volunteers to reach your position, so be prepared to help yourself. Carry the Ten Essentials with you to help endure adverse conditions until a rescue team can get to you.
The NH Department of Fish & Game does occasionally bill individuals for the cost their rescue if they are deemed to have been reckless or negligent with their safety. Volunteer teams do not issue any billing for rescue.
To reduce your risk of being billed, make sure to prepare adequately and use good judgement. Hike with appropriate gear, layers, and sturdy footwear, while sticking to marked trails. You can also purchase a New Hampshire voluntary Hike Safe Card, which exempts you from liability for your rescue (barring cases of extreme recklessness). Well-prepared and responsible hikers who simply meet with bad luck are unlikely to receive a bill.
PVSART is a human-only rescue team. The state’s search and rescue operations do not extend to pets, though if your pet becomes lost or injured on a hike, you can reach out to informal volunteer groups such as NH Paw Rescue (contactable through the Appalachian Mountain Club), and nonprofit organization Granite State Dog Recovery, which helps search for lost dogs in NH. When hiking with your pet, be sure to bring first aid supplies such as extra bandaging and booties should they become injured, and pack a dog rescue harness so you can carry your furry friend out if necessary.
Carry-outs are heavy work, with the weight of a litter and a human patient combined, being carried along with rescuers’ packs and gear over rough terrain. Having a team of at least a dozen, or ideally 18 to 30, allows volunteers to routinely swap out who is helping to carry the litter. This prevents exhaustion and reduces risk of injuries to the rescue team by providing frequent breaks from carrying duty. Volunteers not currently carrying the litter are also able to scout ahead for obstacles and encourage other hikers on the trail to make way.