Woman found on Pine Nut Road after overnight ordeal

Douglas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue looked for a Fish Springs woman through the night Monday, after she failed to return to a preset location.

Jennifer Steadman, 42, was found about 8:35 a.m. Tuesday on Pine Nut Road.

"We warmed her up, gave her some food, released her and sent her on her way," said Shaun Thomas, Douglas County Sheriff's Office Department Search and Rescue operation leader.

Steadman and her husband, Stan, had been out with a metal detector Monday. They were separated and Steadman did not meet with her husband at their predetermined spot. After family members searched for about two hours, search and rescue was called about 9:30 p.m. Monday night.

Thomas said Steadman's backpack of gloves, warm clothing and matches, which enabled her to start a fire, kept her warm.

More than 40 people responded to the search, including the Civil Air Patrol from Reno, search teams from Washoe, El Dorado and Lyon counties, East Fork Fire Personnel, locals in the area and wilderness dogs.

"She just got turned around," Thomas said Tuesday afternoon. "She did quite a few right things."

Thomas, who has been a member of DCSO's Search and Rescue for 19 years, said some people hesitate to call because they think there is a charge.

However, the 38 volunteers work for no fee. Anyone wanting more information about volunteering or making donations can contact search and rescue at 782-9930.

Thomas offered the following advice to anyone lost: "Always stay in the same spot."

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