Woman Survives 6 Days Lost in Mountains, Snake Bite

A woman who went missing for six days in the Appalachian Mountains while hiking with her dog survived a snake bite and near-freezing temperatures, authorities said.

Susan Smith, 63, of Greenville, South Carolina, was found alive on Wednesday afternoon after becoming lost on a hike on Saturday, according to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office. Her dog, named Buddy, was also found safe.

“Ms. Smith went out on a hike and became lost. Due to inclement weather and rugged terrain, rescue efforts were hampered,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

Smith had called 911 on Saturday to report that she was lost, but the call was disconnected, authorities said. Search and rescue crews spent days combing the mountainous terrain but were initially unable to find her.

When rescuers finally located Smith, they found she was suffering from hypothermia and had been bitten by a snake, the sheriff’s office said.

The snakebite was treated on site by a rescue team member who is a paramedic, and Smith was then taken by helicopter to Mission Hospital, where she is in stable condition.

Smith’s survival is a testament to her resilience and ability to stay calm in a harrowing situation. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for the unpredictable nature of the outdoors, including knowing how to use a map and compass and being aware of potential hazards.

A Survivor’s Tale

Smith told authorities that she stayed put in one location after becoming lost and tried to make a signal fire. She said she stayed as warm as possible and rationed her food and water supplies.

“I was scared and didn’t know if I’d make it,” Smith said, in a brief statement released by the hospital.

Smith’s experience is not unique. Thousands of people go missing in the wilderness every year, and many of them survive for days, weeks, or even months without any contact with civilization. In many cases, survival hinges on the individual’s ability to maintain their mental and physical strength and to adapt to their environment. Smith’s story demonstrates that it is possible to survive in the face of adversity, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Safety Precautions

While there is no way to eliminate all risks when exploring the wilderness, there are many things you can do to improve your safety. Here are a few tips from experienced outdoor enthusiasts:

• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Bring a map and compass and know how to use them. Download a map of the area before you go.
• Bring a cell phone, but remember that service can be unreliable in many areas.
• Bring a whistle to signal for help if necessary.
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for anything.
• Carry extra food and water.
• Be aware of the potential for wild animals, insects, and snakes. Learn how to identify venomous snakes in your area. Take a class in basic survival skills.

If you find yourself lost, try to stay calm and avoid wandering. Signal for help using a whistle or a mirror. Stay in one location if possible, as it will make it easier for search and rescue crews to find you.

Most importantly, be prepared for the unexpected and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.