[pct-l] To pay or not to pay

[CMountainDave@xxxxxxx (CMountainDave@xxxxxxx)]

2 cross country skiers were found yesterday after being missing for several
nights. They were skiing the PCT from Crystal Mountain Ski Resort near Mt.
Rainier to White Pass. Avalanche conditions were high due to heavy new snow
so the worst was feared. Turns out they were very experienced and simply snow
camped until the avalanche conditions abated and made their own way out
  And so the debate continues; should they have to pay because a search was
launched?
 This was a textbook case on what to do right when the unexpected happens.
They notified someone of their plans, gave a firm arrival date, and
instructions to notify the authorities if they were over due. Exactly what
were told to do. They didn't panic and try to cross dangerous slopes or risk
off trail travel just to keep a search from being initiated.
  But then, they knew the risks and went anyway, causing a costly rescue to
ensue
 But if they had to pay, the next guys are going to think twice -- not about
going, but whether or not to risk a costly rescue, and just keep their plans
to themselves. If they then die, it would kind of defeat the whole purpose of
having mountain rescue services to begin with: to help experts who finally
throw snake eyes or novices in way over their heads
   If you don't ask for help, or end up not needing rescue, should you be
forced to pay anyway? Or only for services rendered?
   Isn't it a bit ridiculous to demand $457, 981 to pay for a rescue from
someone who may be one paycheck away from foreclosure? Since you can't
squeeze blood from a rock, isn't the whole debate on who should pay for
rescue academic? The only REAL solution is to simply ban all activity deemed
dangerous by government lawyers on public land - especially being ALONE! Or
require rescue insurance before entry of any kind is allowed (my bet as the
final -solution -that-won't- work. People simply won't bother with permits or
forge them if costs get too high)
 Or better yet SELL all those public lands and let the new owners insurance
company worry about it!