WA sheriff considers fines for rescues; Poe Russell agrees reckless hikers should pay up

The Skamania County sheriff is working on legislation to fine people whose reckless or negligent actions lead to a rescue, KATU 2 reported earlier this month. Sheriff Summer Scheyer stated rescue missions increased by 400% in May 2025, compared to the previous year, putting a financial burden on the county.

KIRO host proposes $5,000 to $10,000 fines for rescues

KIRO fill-in host Angela Poe Russell believes there should be a $5,000 to $10,000 fine for rescues. However, she questioned how officials would define reckless behavior.

“For some people, this is just part of an adventure, and lots of people do it safely,” she said. “But let’s say you’re doing something that is said on paper, ‘Do not do this,’ and you do it, then I think it gets to that stage of charging the fee. But if it’s one of those things where this is high risk, but people do it, I don’t know, to me, that’s a little tricky.”

Angela shared her own experience of almost needing to be saved.

“I came very close to needing some kind of rescue years ago, out hiking with my kids, and one of my kids ran off,” she said. “My older one just shot off and turned a corner. And so I want to leave enough grace for people who make mistakes when they’re out there.”

A listener noted that many search and rescue crews are volunteers, meaning it’s not just a financial burden but also puts lives at risk.

Listen to the full conversation below.

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