Fort Simpson (Apr 01/05) - A Fort Providence man was rescued this weekend after being marooned in the bush for several hours when his snowmobile ran into mechanical problems.

Roger Sanderson was cold and dehydrated when he was found Saturday evening, but was otherwise in good condition, said RCMP Cpl. Rob Harkin.

"He is going to be all right," Harkin said. "He is fortunate."

Sanderson was heading towards a cabin in the bush when his snowmobile broke down early Saturday about 20 km outside of his community, said Harkin.

After walking about 10 km back towards the hamlet, Sanderson was spotted by the pilot of a plane conducting a bison herd survey.

"He was able to wave his arms and attract their attention," Harkin said.

A rescue team that included RCMP officers and residents found Sanderson a short time later.

The news of the successful rescue comes just a week after two snowmobilers died in separate accidents. Both perished when their machines became stuck in river overflow - one south Wrigley and the other near Fort McPherson.

While the details of both cases are still sketchy, it appears as though both men were missing for several hours before police were notified.

Hunters and trappers heading onto the land should give friends or family members an itinerary of their trip, Harkin said.

"Tell someone exactly where you are going and most importantly, when you are going to be home."