Four hikers safe after lengthy search

Four hikers are safe after a three and a half hour search last night of some of OconeeCounty’s most rugged terrain.  Two adults and two children became overdue and Oconee rescue crews mobilized a search starting at 6:30 last night to the Burrell’s Ford area of the ChattoogaRiver.  As the rescuers deployed into an area along the Foothills Trail, they became concerned for the two adults and two children because of falling temperatures.  But they were found in the Big Bend area and given food, water and warm clothing.  They were assessed by EMS workers, but released to other family members in waiting.  Oconee County Emergency Services encourages all visitors to the county’s wilderness areas to always be prepared for quick changing temperatures and, possibly, an overnight camp for safety.  Preparations should include a travel plan that is shared with family and friends who can notify emergency workers if necessary.