4×4 Facebook groups help drivers stuck in drifts

Another winter storm, another chance to get stuck in the snow! But did you know there's a growing movement online of good Samaritans, driving 4X4's, looking to help?

"It's just neighbors helping neighbors," said Dante Giadone, founder of the Tri-Lakes 4x4 Rescue and Recovery Community Service, "We don't charge anything at all. This is purely volunteer-based." 

He launched the group to help residents living in the Monument, Woodmoor, Palmer Lake and Northern El Paso County areas. 

"We have a pretty well-oiled system. We have an actual number people can call if they need help and we have a few dispatchers. They are volunteering their time," he said. 

Tri-Lakes is not alone. Other groups like Teller County 4x4 Rescue and Recovery have more than 700-hundred members and they're growing. A quick look at these pages confirms what members already know - their drivers are ready and waiting, even excited to help. 

Giadone says they're pulling vehicles out of ditches, driveways and back roads - freeing up fire and rescue for more severe situations.

"So they can handle the real emergencies and we can take a load off their shoulders. Win-win for everyone," he said. 

These are not professional groups. They're all volunteers. If you are stranded or injured on a main road or a highway call 9-1-1.