Kamloops Search and Rescue was deployed Monday evening after a motorist was reported stuck in the snow on Martin Prairie Road in the Pritchard area.

Just after 5:00 p.m., KSAR was tasked by the RCMP to assist with the call. Sixteen search and rescue volunteers responded, deploying two snowmobiles and a backup utility terrain vehicle to access the remote area.

When teams arrived at the coordinates provided, they were unable to locate the vehicle. Snowmobile teams continued searching more than two kilometres beyond the last known position and observed tire tracks leading away from the reported location.

RCMP later confirmed that, based on information obtained through Apple iPhone communications, the motorist had already been assisted and freed by a local resident.

Search operations were stood down at approximately 8:00 p.m., with equipment loaded and crews returning to the hall. All team members were home by around 10 p.m.

KSAR said Martin Prairie Road was the reported location and noted it is believed the motorist may have been attempting to travel toward Kelowna and missed the usual turnoff.

The organization is reminding drivers to use caution when relying on navigation apps, particularly when travelling in rural or forested areas.

“In many cases, it is safer to turn around and return to a missed turn rather than continue down forest service roads,” KSAR said in a statement, especially when drivers are expecting highway conditions.

With winter conditions persisting, KSAR emphasized the importance of proper preparation, including appropriate winter tires and carrying essentials such as tire chains and a shovel.