Lives saved
1
Hiking
Lake
Medical emergency
Normal conditions
A Lifesaving Call: Activating ACR PLB to Rescue Injured Hiker
-44.7573055°S, 168.0144812°E
Posted on June 5, 2023 by German Backpacker Foreign Visitor
What happened?
I have previously activated my ACR PLB to help someone in need.
On the 29th of January 2023, I assisted a group of hikers who were desperately needing help when one of their friends had slipped on wet rocks and tumbled down at Gertrude Saddle Black Lake in Fiordland National Park.
My climbing buddy and I quickly rushed to the scene and provided aid. His injuries did not appear severe, he was conscious.
I took out my PLB and pushed the button. We also sent SOS messages via the Garmin Inreach to my emergency contact who were passing that info to SAR and initiating a Search and Rescue.
After an hour of setting off my PLB, we could hear a helicopter approaching the mountains. The Injured hiker was airlifted to the Hospital in Invercargill.
Words of wisdom
Lessons were learned. The main one being that having a PLB is so important. I genuinely believed I’d never have to actually use it. I’m glad that I did to assist somebody in need.
Thank you note
Thank you ACR for the excellent device. And big thanks to Search and Rescue team for the amazing work they do in our backcountry.
Rescue location
Gertrude Saddle Route, Southland 9679, New Zealand
Rescue team
Local Search and Rescue
ResQLink™ View RLS
Go to product details$469.95
- No Subscription Required
- Digital Display
- Return Link Service (RLS) Functionality
- GPS | Galileo GNSS
- Built-In Buoyancy
- Strobe and Infrared Strobe
- Global Coverage
- MEOSAR Compatible
- Small and lightweight
- 5 year battery life
- 28 hours Operational Life**
- Multifunction Clip System Included
- Exclusive ACR Skins included with purchase (customize your beacon and tailor it to your lifestyle and preferred activities)