12 June 2013

Investigation into possible misuse of beacon

A tramper investigated for possible misuse of a personal locator beacon has undertaken to plan future expeditions more carefully, to avoid underestimating the difficulty of terrain.

The Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) initiated an investigation into the incident in February, following concerns expressed by rescue participants.

Maritime New Zealand’s General Manager of Safety and Response Services, Nigel Clifford, said that after a thorough investigation, including interviews with participants, no further action was required.

The 67-year-old man activated his beacon on the third day of an intended five-day untracked tramp in the Hooker Wilderness Area, on the South Island’s West Coast.

“He had encountered more difficult terrain than anticipated, despite carrying out extensive research of the area, and felt that he would be putting himself at considerable risk by attempting to walk out of the area,” Mr Clifford said.

“We are satisfied that in the particular circumstances this person was justified in activating their emergency beacon.

“Had he continued, it is likely a search and rescue operation would have been initiated because he was overdue – and if he wasn’t able to activate the beacon for any reason, conditions in the area would have made finding him very difficult. The terrain in the area is extremely hazardous, with large boulders covered by thick undergrowth.”

Mr Clifford said: “We certainly do not wish to discourage people from activating beacons when they are in distress but it is not a decision that should be taken lightly.”

He reiterated the need for people going into wilderness areas to be prepared.

“Beacons are not a substitute for good planning,” he said. “People going into wilderness areas should be aware of weather forecasts and carry suitable communications equipment such as a mountain radio. Cellphones should not be relied upon.”

ENDS

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