Found: Lost Boy Scout survives after building shelter in 31-degree weather

August 13, 2011 - 08:59 pm
Photo: Courtesy of Ashley National Forest.

MANILA, Utah (AP) - Utah authorities say a 12-year-old Boy Scout's survival training and calm response helped him survive a cold overnight stay in the woods.

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Jared Ropelato got lost yesterday while returning to camp from a nearby lake in Ashley National Forest.

He built a lean-to of tree branches and wood to protect himself. He also covered himself in dirt to remain warm. The temperature dipped to 31 degrees in the area. He was wearing a shirt and jeans and had no food or water.

It's believed Ropelato walked eight or nine miles before searchers on ATVs found him today some four miles from where he started.

He told the Deseret News of Salt Lake City that he had learned to build the survival structure last year at Scout camp. He said "yeah" when asked if he plans to go camping again.

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