My friends and I were out on one of our many snowmobiling adventures. We are advanced riders who typically navigate remote, challenging terrain far from easy access points.

That day, conditions were perfect—untracked deep powder in one of our favorite secret spots.

Unfortunately, things took a turn when my friend hit a hidden stump, launching him into the air. The impact resulted in a broken femur and a dislocated shoulder. He was in excruciating pain, and with only a few hours of daylight left, I knew we wouldn’t be able to get him out on our own.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I activated my ResQLink 400 PLB, which I always carry with me in the backcountry, and tended to my injured friend.

A short while later, Search and Rescue arrived via helicopter. Thankfully, we were near a clearing, allowing them to transport him quickly.

He received emergency surgery that same night.

There was no cellular service, and a ground rescue would have been impossible due to the challenging terrain. I’m incredibly grateful for the beacon I’ve carried all these years and the fast response of the Search and Rescue team.