2024-Dec-20
what3words Helps Locate an Injured Hiker in Frontenac Provincial Park
A dramatic rescue operation was undertaken in Ontario’s Frontenac Provincial Park on December 8, 2024, after a 30-year-old female hiker slipped and fell down an embankment, injuring her leg. Her fellow hikers contacted emergency services, who were able to pinpoint her location by using the what3words app. Once on the scene, a paramedic firefighter determined that the hiker had likely broken her leg. Due to the remote location and deteriorating conditions, it was decided that airlifting the hiker to hospital was the safest option. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were contacted for air support, and a search and rescue helicopter from the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Trenton was dispatched to airlift the hiker to Kingston General Hospital for medical attention.
It took approximately seven hours from the time of the 911 call to get the injured hiker to the hospital. This incident highlights the importance of being prepared when venturing into the wilderness. OPP Constable Robert Martell gave Cottage Life the following recommendations for hikers to take to ensure in case you encounter an emergency:
Bring a fully charged cell phone with a back-up battery- Download the what3words app to help emergency services locate you
- Don’t hike alone
- Be familiar with the trail and carry a map
- Tell someone your location, start time, expected end time, parking location, and hiking plan
- Be aware of the weather forecast for the entire day
- Stick to trails and conditions that suit your ability
- Carry first aid supplies
- Be prepared to use some survival skills if you have to spend the night in the bush
- And be aware that rescuers take time to assemble and locate you, so be prepared with extra food and water