Be prepared - that's the message from Police to day walkers and trampers in the current wintry conditions.
Just before 5pm on Saturday evening, a woman contacted Police after getting into difficulties with two female friends near the top of Mount Oxford, North Canterbury, after walking there from Coopers Creek car park.
Knee-deep snow was preventing them from moving forward, the path behind them had turned to ice, and they were not sure of their exact location. They were not prepared for the conditions and had very little equipment with them.
A Land Search and Rescue team and a helicopter were deployed to find them.
The helicopter crew located them near the top of Mount Oxford at about 6.20pm. They were cold and pleased to be rescued. Had the helicopter been unable to find them, it could have taken 4 to 6 hours for Land Search and Rescue teams to reach them.
This incident is a timely reminder for those choosing to go tramping or day walking at this time of year to be prepared.
Remember shorter daylight hours and snow conditions are likely to extend any suggested times for walks, and you need to be prepared with adequate food, clothing and maps. Know your limitations and be aware of the likely weather conditions.
Police would also urge everyone to remember the 5 simple rules of the outdoor safety code:
* Plan your trip: Seek local knowledge and plan the route you will take and the amount of time you can reasonably expect it to take
* Tell someone: Tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned
* Be aware of the weather: New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the forecast and expect weather changes
* Know your limits: Challenge yourself within your physical limits and experience. Learn safe ways of rescuing others without putting yourself in danger
* Take sufficient supplies: Make sure you have enough food, clothing, equipment and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication
ENDS
For more information on outdoor safety: http://www.landsar.org.nz/outdoor-safety/
Issued by Police Media centre