Hefty price tag for cave rescue

The cost of rescuing a hiker trapped in a cave in June has been tallied at $45,831.29, said Clearview Township Fire Chief Colin Shewell.

The man was extricated from a deep crevice cave at Nottawasaga Bluffs near Singhampton June 21 after being trapped for about 22 hours.

Shewell said the cost “is a result of highly qualified individuals from three fire departments that worked as a team to achieve a positive outcome. This expense is to be covered by Clearview fire operating budget of 2015 and the Township of Clearview.”

The cost includes equipment, apparatus and the wages of firefighters from Barrie and Toronto who performed the 16-hour technical rescue.

“This rescue had a very positive end for a Clearview Township resident and his family from Glen Huron, every technical rescue or emergency call for service is reviewed and is based on its own merit,” said Shewell.

“Clearview Fire and Emergency Services is committed to high quality, timely and professional service.”