encounters they face, and the type of training that they require. Boulder, Colorado is a mecca for outdoor activities, but search and rescue data for this region have not been documented in the medical literature. The Rocky Mountain Rescue Group (RMRG) is one of the more active search and rescue groups in Colorado, and has been formally collecting data related to their activities since 2002.
Objective.-The purpose of this study is to examine the epidemiology of search and rescue activities in and around Boulder, Colorado using data available from RMRG.
Methods.-A retrospective analysis was performed on data available from RMRG for 2002 to 2008. Data points collected include number of calls, types of calls, location of calls, victim activity, rescue techniques used, and volunteer hours required. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and linear regression models.
Results.-Injuries related to hiking and climbing activities were the most common activities requiring a search and rescue response. The types of activities associated with a response did not change significantly over time. The number of calls, types of calls, location of calls, and types of required rescue did not change significantly over the study period. Limited medical data were available for collection.
Conclusions.
-The prevalence and nature of calls to RMRG did not change over time. These data are valuable for assessing volunteer training program requirements, and for assessing necessary evacuation and medical equipment needs for the near future. Improving medical data collection may be beneficial to better plan for future medical emergencies.