Last January 22, three skiers were rescued in Stevens Pass, Washington, USA, thanks to an automatically sent request for an Apple Watch.
According to Sergeant Jason Stanley of the King County Sheriff, the technology played a crucial role in the rescue operation. “Without some kind of satellite communication device, this story could have a very different ending due to extreme temperatures and remote location where they were,” Stanley told ABC News.
Two of the skiers fell from a height of approximately 152 meters, resulting in a leg fracture to one and a sprain on the knee and invoice on the wrist to the other. The third skier escaped unharmed.
“They were on the basis of steep terrain, surrounded by very high trees. The atmosphere was extremely dark and difficult to get there, ”recalled Tony Mullinax, a co-pilot involved in the rescue.
After the operation, the skiers were taken to a hospital in Seattle, where they received treatment and, according to the authorities, “will be fine.” The case highlights how modern devices can be crucial in emergency situations in isolated areas.
