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A Harrowing Night on the Rio Grande
Late one October night, a challenging rescue unfolded in the treacherous Taos Box of New Mexico’s Rio Grande. Veteran boaters, John Fullbright and John "Copper John" Nettles, found themselves drawn into a life-or-death mission to save two paddlers, Sydnie Keeter and Jeremy "Daisy" Norris, who were stranded after a series of missteps on the river.
It all began as Fullbright prepared dinner for his family when he received a call that would disrupt their cozy evening. He called upon Copper John, and together they began their preparations for a rescue that couldn't wait until dawn. This wasn't just any river; the Taos Box is notorious for its class III and IV rapids, with steep canyon walls and unpredictable currents.
The Risk of Recklessness
Sydnie and Daisy had only recently met through an online community for outdoor enthusiasts. Eager for adventure, they set out on inflatable paddleboards, unprepared for the challenges ahead. As they navigated the class III and IV rapids, their excitement turned swiftly to panic when Daisy flipped her board amidst the rapids, leading to a series of unfortunate events.
Both paddlers were tossed into the icy waters, separated, and their equipment lost to the river. Without life jackets and only minimal supplies to survive the night, they faced an uphill battle as temperatures plummeted.
The Power of Technology in Emergencies
In the face of adversity, Sydnie managed to send an SOS using her iPhone 15, which can send satellite distress signals even when out of cellular range. This technological lifeline allowed them to reach emergency services effectively, thus triggering the organized rescue that followed.
Their plight was taken seriously, as the Taos County Sheriff’s Department mobilized with drones to locate them in the dense canyon. Even with modern technology, the risks of navigating the waters at night posed significant challenges for the rescue team.
A Rescue Against All Odds
Fullbright and Copper John waded into the darkness, relying on experience from countless river runs but never before in such limited visibility. With custom lights positioned on their helmets, they navigated the rapids until they found the stranded paddlers huddled together for warmth.
Contrary to what they had expected, instead of a reprimand, Fullbright greeted them with encouragement. After ensuring their safety, he prepared a comforting meal of chicken and rice soup, a gesture that helped soothe the fear of being alone in the wilderness. Their ordeal transformed from a near tragedy into a story of heroism and community.
Lessons Learned and Future Precautions
Fullbright’s hope is that their fortunate rescue brings heightened awareness to the need for thorough paddling preparation, increased safety training for local responders, and visible warnings for those entering the challenging waters of the Taos Box.
“There’s so much beauty in the Taos Box,” he said, emphasizing that adventure should be pursued but with respect and preparation for the elements. Ignoring those fundamentals can mean the difference between an exhilarating day and a tragedy.
Join the Conversation
This rescue story serves as a rallying cry for those passionate about paddle sports and river safety. Are you prepared for your next adventure on the water? Understanding the inherent risks and developing skills like swiftwater rescue can not only enrich your experience but also ensure you're ready for anything.
Let's share stories of our adventures and learn from each other. Join a local paddling community, take safety courses, and never underestimate the power of preparation. Together, we can ensure safety and foster a culture of camaraderie and support on the river.
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