The Unforgettable iPhone SOS Feature
When faced with life-threatening situations, having a reliable communication device can make all the difference. Such was the case for a family that got lost in the icy forests of Oregon, USA, and managed to survive by using the Emergency SOS feature on their iPhone, as reported by Business Insider.
A Lifesaving Tool in the Oregon Forests
Brian McCall, the spokesperson for the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office in Oregon, revealed that the family of six got lost in the freezing Mt. Hood National Forest due to treacherous weather conditions. The deep snow and adverse weather prevented them from finding their way back.
Fortunately, they activated the Emergency SOS feature on their iPhones, which uses satellite technology to connect users with emergency responders, even in areas with no cellular network coverage. At 7:30 pm, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office received their distress signal.
How Does the iPhone SOS Feature Work?
Apple introduced the Emergency SOS feature in the iPhone 14 models. This feature allows iPhone 14 and 15 owners to contact emergency responders even when they are outside the reach of cellular signals.
The feature connects users to satellites orbiting the Earth, which then transmit the user’s message and location to nearby responders. This innovative technology has proven to be a lifeline in critical situations.
The Harrowing Journey in Mt. Hood National Forest
The family embarked on a long hike through the Mt. Hood National Forest, starting from the Salmon River Headwaters trailhead. After covering nearly 13 kilometers and reaching an altitude of over 1,000 meters, the weather took a turn for the worse. Fatigue from the long hike, combined with reduced visibility due to heavy snowfall, left them disoriented in the deep forest.
Image: Illustration
Rescue teams equipped with off-road vehicles were dispatched promptly after receiving the SOS signal. However, it took until the following morning, with the challenges of snow, steep terrain, and fallen trees, to reach the stranded family.
Despite unsuccessful attempts to rescue them by helicopter due to adverse weather conditions, the family managed to stay safe until help finally arrived. They were exhausted, severely cold, and dehydrated, but thankfully, their lives were not in immediate danger.
The Power of the iPhone SOS Feature
The incident in Oregon is not the first time the iPhone’s Emergency SOS feature has come to the rescue. In January 2024, a student in Delaware, USA, was saved from carbon monoxide poisoning by using the SOS feature on their Apple Watch in the nick of time.
According to Apple, the simplest way to activate the Emergency SOS feature is by pressing and holding the power button and one of the volume buttons. Once the SOS slider appears, users can swipe it to initiate an emergency call.
Image: Illustration
The iPhone’s Emergency SOS feature has proven to be a game-changer in emergency situations, saving numerous lives. Its ability to connect via satellite technology and provide location information to responders ensures that help can reach those in need, even in remote areas.
To learn more about this incredible feature, visit Business Today.
Reference: Business Insider