[proud_yank]

will the families or their estate pay for this? Why is it MY responsibility when they take on this risk?

Search & Rescue groups generally tend to be volunteer organizations. Not sure about Mt. Hood, but often times if helicopters and others are needed, the party will have to pay for the rescue. Some places, that warning is posted at trailheads.

[Recovering Ex-hippie]

Thanks for a reasoned and helpful reply.