A family and a hiker are safe after Maine Game Wardens and first responders executed two rescues in freezing temperatures Saturday night into Sunday morning.
Weekend Rescues Prompt Winter Weather Reminder to Hikers
The Warden Service is cautioning hikers to be prepared for winter weather, after two rescues over the weekend.
One rescue involved an Appalachian Trail hiker who wardens say probably wouldn t have survived the night, due to hypothermia. 38-year-old Christopher Lebel of Phippsburg was hiking on the trail with his dog on Saturday when, about four miles into his trip, he fell into the water. Lebel changed his clothes, but wardens say he was unable to get warm. He became hypothermic with below-freezing temperatures, windy conditions, and ice and snow on the ground. Lebel texted a friend that he needed help and they called 911 just before 10:00 Saturday night.