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A paraglider who crashed into a cliff at Mount Prevost near Duncan, B.C., on Friday afternoon was rescued with the help of a bystander.
John Blown from North Shore Rescue says the paraglider was unconscious, hanging from his harness in a rock gully between two cliff faces.
A bystander, who was also paragliding at the time, called 911 and climbed up to where the paraglider was, Blown says.
The bystander was able to cut the paraglider free and got him to a ledge.
“He did an amazing job providing first aid and coordinating with the rescue teams on the phone,” said Blown.
North Shore Rescue and Talon Helicopters responded to the call, along with Cowichan Search and Rescue. Blown said they spotted the two on the cliff as the bystander waved a foil blanket.
Two hoist technicians, who are also physicians, provided initial first aid on the scene. The team then hoisted the paraglider, and later the bystander, off the cliff.
“Much respect and thanks to this person who assisted in the rescue,” Blown said.
He said the the paraglider was transferred to the care of paramedics.
B.C. Emergency Health Services confirmed in an email to CBC that crews responded just after 5 p.m. on Friday.
It said the patient was conscious and taken to the hospital in a serious but stable condition.
“He was severely injured for sure, but he’s going to be ok,” said Blown.
“It’s why we do what we do. It’s so we can return people to their loved ones.”