While snowmobiling in the Mauricie region, a 60-year-old man got stuck on a lake. Trying to free himself on his own, he lost both his boots and decided to walk back to his cottage. Once home, neighbours called for help. The man suffered deep frostbite in both lower limbs.

The decision to call for an air ambulance was the best thing that could have happened to him. To increase his chances of receiving specialized care quickly, he was flown directly to a specialized center in Quebec City and was able to avoid having his feet amputated. After a few months of recovery, he was able to return to his regular activities.

Fast service and timely specialized care increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of long-term effects.

During my first helicopter rescue mission in 2001 as a flight paramedic, I went to help a young forestry worker who had been in an ATV accident in the Lac Taureau area. We took charge of the patient, who had suffered a serious leg fracture. From that moment on, I understood just how important it is to have a rapidly available air ambulance service in such a situation.

It can happen to anyone, at any time.