iPhone's Emergency SOS via Satellite Feature Helped Rescue Skiers Caught in Lake Tahoe Avalanche

Source: MacRumors

Avalanche rescue using Emergency SOS via satellite

Six skiers who survived the avalanche near Lake Tahoe on Tuesday used the Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone to get help, reports The New York Times. Emergency SOS via satellite lets iPhone users communicate with emergency responders via text when a cellular or Wi‑Fi connection is not available.

“One of my personnel was communicating with one of the guides over a four‑hour period, giving information back to the Nevada sheriff’s office and coordinating what rescues could be permitted,” said Don O’Keefe, law enforcement chief for California’s Office of Emergency Services.

Availability

Emergency SOS via satellite is available on the iPhone 14 and later, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Apple offers the functionality for free.

Other Off‑Grid Emergencies

The feature has been credited with helping people in multiple off‑grid emergencies, from car accidents to wild fires.

Supported Regions

Emergency SOS via satellite works in the following countries and territories:

• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Canada
• France
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy
• Japan
• Luxembourg
• Mexico
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Portugal
• Spain
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States