Mountain rescue: advice and guidance

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Wasdale Mountain Rescue Credit: ITV News Border

Mobile Phones and Mountain Rescue

Advice to Users

There is no doubt that using mobile phones have saved lives in the mountains and fells of this country. The sooner rescue teams are alerted to an incident, the better are the chances of a quick and complete recovery for the victim. However, over the past few years there have been occasions when teams have been alerted inappropriately. The notes that follow are given in the hope that the mobile phone can be used to better effect and to minimise any frustration.

When to use

  • If you or a member of your party sustains an injury warranting the assistance of a mountain rescue team.

  • If you come across someone who has sustained an injury warranting the assistance of a mountain rescue team.

  • If one of your party has become separated from the main party and you have made every effort to but have been unable to meet up again.

  • If you want to report having seen or heard any internationally recognised distress calls.

  • If you wish to notify someone of a change of plan (not a 999 call).

When not to use

  • Do not use the mobile phone at the 'first sign of trouble', be self-reliant if possible.

  • Do not rely solely on the mobile phone as a safety device, there are areas of poor or not reception ('dead areas').

  • The mobile phone is not a substitute for experience.

How to use

First make a note of all relevant details, Location (Grid Ref. If possible)

  • Name, Sex and Age of Casualty.

  • Nature of Injuries or disability.

  • Number of people in party and intended destination.

  • THE NUMBER OF THE MOBILE PHONE IN USE.

Dial 999 and ask for the Police.

  • Make sure you tell the operator that you require the Cumbria Police as you are in the Lake District.

  • When connected to a Police control room, check that it is the Cumbria Police. If it is not, then make sure that the information will be passed on.

  • Explain the nature of your call, giving details previously prepared.

  • Do NOT change your position until contacted by Rescue Team, who will agree future protocol for use of Phone.

  • If you have to make a further 999 call, use ALL the above procedure again.

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