Teen plunges up to 30 feet while exploring ‘rocky terrain.’ Parents call for help

Simone Jasper
·3 min read
5

A teenager slipped from a rock and tumbled up to 30 feet while on a family outing in Tennessee, officials said.

The group was out exploring “nature trails and rocky terrain” near Signal Mountain when the 13-year-old girl fell. The teen’s parents called 911 to seek help, the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security wrote in a Facebook post.

First responders from several agencies rushed in after receiving the call at about 6:30 p.m. June 12. They reported to an area in Hixson, near Falling Water Falls and roughly 15 miles northeast of downtown Chattanooga.

“First responders hiked into the rocky woods to the patient where they assessed her injuries and secured the patient in a Stokes basket,” a stretcher used to carry patients, officials wrote.

A photo and video posted online show rescuers gathered at the scene. Crews can be seen hoisting a stretcher-like device in a wooded area.

The teen, believed to have fallen 25 to 30 feet, was carried to an ambulance and taken to a hospital. The girl had a “serious” head injury but should be OK, according to WRCB.

How to be prepared while hiking

If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:

  • Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.

  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.

  • Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

  • Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.

  • First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.

  • Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.

  • Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.

  • Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”

  • Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.

  • Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.

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