People have been warned not to rely on smartphones for directions when out walking in the countryside after a man had to be rescued in the Lake District. More than 70 people were involved in a rescue operation after he became lost in treacherous conditions.
The mountain rescue team said the walker was “very, very fortunate” to survive. He got into trouble on the ridge between Scafell Pike and Great End.
The first call for help was made at 6.30pm on Monday, however he was not located until 2.30pm the next day due to poor weather conditions, reports WalesOnline.
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Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team was called in by Cumbria Police and made contact with him despite a weak mobile phone signal. They advised him to stay where he was and shelter from the wind.
However when they were unable to find him at that location a wider search was "mounted in incredibly difficult conditions". It had to be called off in the early hours, with the search resuming at first light.
WMRT said: "We rarely comment on a rescue, but in this case we would like to say he was very, very fortunate to have survived. We also have to say that Google Maps on smartphones are not suitable for navigating on the hills.
"They lack detail and of course will not work with a flat battery. There is no substitute for a map and compass and being able to use them. They can save one's life."
It said wet and misty weather made ground searches "very challenging". It meant helicopter support could not be brought in, the search team added.
The man, who had hypothermia along with knee, leg and foot injuries, was taken to hospital after being found on the east bank of Piers Gill. A total of nine rescue teams were involved in the operation to rescue him along with five search dogs and two drones.
Donations to the volunteers at Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team can be made on their JustGiving page HERE. Find out more at their website.
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