Preparing a Personal Locator Beacon - 'Undoubtedly the Top Choice'
In the picturesque Okuku Gorge area, a Christchurch father and his two primary school-aged sons found themselves in a challenging situation during an overnight tramp. The family had set out to explore the rugged terrain, but their adventure took a turn when they became stranded due to the difficult terrain and a swollen river.
The tramping party had been prepared, carrying a tent and emergency food, but they had no cell phone reception at the river crossing. The father, who had never before carried a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), found himself in a difficult position. He had never felt the need to invest in one due to the cost, but this weekend trip changed his perspective.
The family had initially planned to go to either Pinchgut Hut or Hut B, but the final decision was to be made based on the river level and weather conditions on the day. However, the heavy rain overnight raised the river level significantly, making it impossible for the tramping party to cross the river at the ford, further downstream, or through the forestry tracks to the road end.
The river crossing at the start of the track was less than knee-deep, but on their return journey, it had become too high and discolored for them to cross safely. The father, feeling the pressure of the situation, activated the PLB to call for rescue.
The decision to activate the PLB was not made lightly, but the father believed it was essential to ensure their safety. The action diverted a significant amount of resources from other rescue work, but the father felt that it was worth it. The rescue team, consisting of a helicopter and paramedics, successfully rescued the tramping party from the side of the hill.
The father expressed his gratitude for the rescue team and for the PLB, which he now considers the single best decision he made during the weekend trip. He also shared his newfound understanding of the importance of carrying an emergency communication device like a PLB when tramping, and hiring them is straightforward and available at places like Macpac stores.
The father also felt a sense of embarrassment about putting his boys into danger on their first overnight tramp and needing to be rescued. However, he hopes that his experience will serve as a lesson for other families planning outdoor adventures. Always be prepared, and never underestimate the power of an emergency communication device.
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