The Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office is preparing for snow by returning a program used throughout the county around 20-30 years ago. With the last blizzard that occurred earlier this year, Sheriff Marty Arganbright says the law enforcement often had to get out of their vehicles and walk to check on stranded vehicles but wondered how the department could assist if there were an actual emergency. The Sheriff’s office is looking for volunteers to join the snowmobile rescue and response team. Arganbright says they got a great response throughout the county about implementing this program again.
The program works by placing the volunteers who signed up on a calling list. If there is a winter weather emergency near a volunteer’s residence to which law or other emergency services couldn’t travel, dispatch would call the individual out with details and instructions on how the emergency team wants to proceed. Arganbright says many emergencies could arise, and they want to ensure individuals can get the help required for those situations.
Arganbright wants volunteers to understand that this is a non-paid position and that the Sheriff’s office is not liable or financially responsible for any injury or damage that may happen during a rescue. Those living in Guthrie County wanting to volunteer can email Deputy Blake Michelsen at b.michelsen@gcso.gov or message the Guthrie County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page to get sign up.
