A family’s harrowing ordeal in Mt. Hood National Forest in the US this week once again reminded us of the life-saving potential of Apple‘s Emergency SOS via satellite feature. The stranded hikers were located and rescued after a 24-hour operation initiated by a critical message sent through their iPhone. According to a press release from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, the family found themselves in a precarious situation on Tuesday, March 19th. Having hiked a significant distance and gained considerable elevation, they became lost and unable to continue. One member of the group, comprised of four adults and two juveniles, managed to send an SOS message via satellite using their iPhone.
Ground crews managed to reach the hikers overnight
This message, received by emergency dispatchers around 7:30 pm, kickstarted the rescue effort. However, challenging weather conditions and difficult terrain hampered rescue teams’ initial attempts to reach the stranded family. Search and rescue personnel deployed all-terrain vehicles but were forced back by the elements.
Despite the setback, ground crews managed to reach the family early the next morning, finding them cold, wet, and dehydrated but thankfully unharmed. With their location confirmed, additional resources were called in, including a helicopter. Unfortunately, thick weather prevented a safe landing.
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office’s snowcat came in clutch, and it reached the area shortly before 10:00 am. The snowcat, however, faced its own challenge – the treacherous terrain. It took several hours to navigate the route and reach the family, but by 7:30 pm that evening, the whole thing finally came to an end as the rescued group was transported back to safety.
iPhone’s Emergency SOS Feature also recently saved lost hikers in California. With the ability to send messages and share location data even without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, the feature can be a lifesaver in critical situations. We should also keep in mind that the story of this family’s rescue is a reminder of the importance of being prepared when venturing outdoors. It also highlights the invaluable role technology can play in emergency situations.
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