Teens Rescued After iPhone SOS Saves Them on Mount Seymour

When two teenage girls got lost on Mount Seymour's snowy slopes Wednesday, a feature built into their iPhone became their lifeline to safety.

The teens set out to summit Runner Peak, a challenging mountaineering route that remains snow-covered this time of year. On their way down, they searched for an easier path but accidentally headed north toward Elsay Lake instead of back to the trailhead.

With each step, they moved deeper into the backcountry. Lightly dressed and increasingly wet and cold, they found themselves in serious trouble with no cell service and no offline maps.

That's when they activated their iPhone's emergency satellite SOS feature. The signal reached North Shore Rescue, though the team couldn't contact the girls directly by phone or text.

Search manager Dale Weidman connected with the girls' mother, who had been texting with them earlier in the day. She provided coordinates showing just how far off course they had wandered.

Despite challenging conditions, North Shore Rescue's helicopter team flew to the remote location. The girls signaled the night-vision equipped crew with their flashlights, and rescuers hoisted them to safety.

Both teens made it home cold and scared but unharmed.

The Bright Side

This rescue showcases how emergency technology and prepared rescue teams work together to save lives. The iPhone satellite SOS feature, available on newer models, can send distress signals even without cell service.

Weidman emphasized that a little preparation goes a long way. Warm clothes, a headlamp, food, water, and offline maps can prevent a fun hike from turning dangerous.

Phone batteries drain faster in cold temperatures, so carrying an external battery pack matters too. Runner Peak requires significant mountaineering experience and skill, especially during winter months.

North Shore Rescue recommends doing research before any mountain adventure. Simple planning can dramatically increase your odds of staying safe and avoiding an emergency altogether.

Two families got their daughters back safe thanks to smart technology and skilled rescuers ready to help.