Four people lost between the Cotopaxi and Chalupas volcanoes were rescued with symptoms of dehydration

Four Ecuadorian hikers started a hike, but got lost on their way. They entered from the side of the Cotopaxi volcano. On the afternoon of Sunday, February 5, the ECU911 Integrated Security Service received several alert calls about missing people between the Cotopaxi and Chalupas volcanoes.

More than 24 hours after the first alert, on the afternoon of Monday, February 6, the citizens were found with symptoms of dehydration, in an area that was difficult to access. The food supplies had run out, they also had no water.

A police unit carried out a reconnaissance search for a path for the entry of relief agencies by land. Finally, the hikers were found alive.

In the event of a possible eruption of the Cotopaxi volcano, the ash would head towards the coast with a 95% probability

The people were transferred to the Latacunga airport, where they were evaluated by an ambulance from the Ministry of Public Health (MSP). The paramedics confirmed that the people did not present significant bruises, their state of health was stable.

The rescue organizations were activated and search groups were launched by air and land. The National Police carried out a series of overflights in the Aeropolicial. Personnel from the Quito Fire Department (CBQ), the Tena Fire Department and the ECU911 Ambato also attended.

‘An eruption of the Cotopaxi volcano is not imminent; however, the eruptive history must be considered’: Hugo Yepes, seismologist and adviser to the Mayor’s Office of Quito

From the ECU911 they recommended that to go on excursions you should have the guide of a qualified person, who knows the place you are going to and wear appropriate clothing and shoes. (YO)