[pct-l] Sierra hikers misuse portable GPS trackers

[David Ellzey]

And another similar article: 
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/10/25/national/a100601D23.DTL

BigToe

-----Original Message-----
From: pct-l-bounces at backcountry.net [mailto:pct-l-bounces at backcountry.net] On Behalf Of Andrew Jones
Sent: Saturday, October 24, 2009 1:40 PM
To: pct-l at backcountry.net
Subject: [pct-l] Sierra hikers misuse portable GPS trackers

http://www.fresnobee.com/local/story/1677667.html

Not much that you all don't already know but still an interesting read. 

>From the article-

But as more people take these devices into the backcountry, more people are using them irresponsibly, say rangers at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Too often they decide to push a button instead of using their heads.

"We've had more illegitimate distress calls this summer than ever before, thanks to these gizmos," said wilderness coordinator Gregg Fauth.
Among the examples from this summer:
A Pacific Crest Trail hiker, frightened during a lightning storm, transmitted two 911 calls on her personal satellite messenger. A widespread search ensued, only for a sheriff to find her in Lone Pine several days later. She neglected to tell anyone she had gotten out.



      
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