Keep in touch and keep safe advises Mountian Safety Council

Mountain Safety Council Outdoor Leader/Bush Programme Manager Chris Tews says the recent tramping incident in the Tararua Ranges highlights the importance of good preparation and the need to always carry an emergency communication device when venturing into the outdoors.

Palmerston North couple Paula and John Eyres got into trouble when Mrs Eyres fell and was injured. Mr Eyres had to walk out of the bush the next day and drive an hour to Shannon to get cellphone reception before he was able to alert police.

Mr Tews said the couple are to be commended for good planning, being well-equipped and making the right decisions.

“Their experience in dealing with emergency situations led to calm and appropriate action after the accident. They were kept safe by knowing how to administer first aid, being well equipped with warm clothes and food and making good decisions to take shelter and for Mr Eyres to seek help the next day once daylight conditions made it safe to walk out,” he said.

Mr Tews strongly recommended that those venturing into the outdoors carry some means of emergency communication, either a mountain radio or a personal locator beacon.

“Accidents can happen even to the most experienced trampers and survival may then rest in the hands of others. Taking an emergency communication device with you when you venture into the outdoors means you can raise the alarm without leaving the injured person and without delay. That simple piece of equipment can make the difference between a rapid rescue or more serious harm,” he said.

For emergency communication in the outdoors a radio communications device is necessary as there is often little or no cellphone reception in the outdoors, particularly in mountain, wilderness or remote areas.

Emergency communication devices can be hired at minimal cost or purchased. For your nearest hire location see the MSC website www.mountainsafety.org.nz  

When venturing into the outdoors the Mountain Safety Council advises:
· Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. If you have not returned, your contact person will inform the police who can arrange for search and rescue.
· Be prepared, and prepared for an extended stay. Take adequate clothing, extra food and drink, a communications device such as mountain radio or personal locator beacon and other equipment appropriate to the terrain and conditions.
· Ensure you have the appropriate experience, local knowledge and navigation skills – know how to use a map and compass
· Don’t travel alone
· Respect rivers and the weather.

More information on outdoor safety including radio communication devices can be found on the Mountain Safety Council’s website www.mountainsafety.org.nz.