>> the first thing he did was built a fire. i think that really prevented any serious medical problems for them. >> rorte police say it was a joint effort that led to the family's rescue tuesday afternoon. a couple of pings from glanton's cell phone eventually led pacific air patrol to the family. meanwhile, glanton's friend, using binoculars located them while scanning the mountainside. >> he's one hell of a guy, that's for damn sure. he kept them alive and warm. my hats off to them. not a lot of people are capable of that. >> reporter: all in all, the doctor says he's very surprised the family was doing so well. they have slight dehydration and slight hypothermia. they're saying this christmas will probably be a little extra special. we can see why, kate. >> no gifts needed this time around. thank you so much, stephanie. let's bring in paul burke, search and rescue coordinator for the department of public safety.