CALL of the wild/ Cell phone can be a useful tool, but should never

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), May 30, 2003 | by DAVE PHILIPPS

On the way down the mountain, his niece cultivated some killer blisters and lagged behind the other girls.

Seeing the two girls come down to the parking lot alone, Schulz asked why they had left his niece behind.

"In unison, they both said, 'Well, she had her cell phone.' But I said, 'What if she dropped it and it doesn't work? Why didn't you stick together?' "

Schulz stopped and sighed.

"The phones just invite disaster. They promise to be a high-tech solution to thinking in advance," he said.

Instead of calling (Schulz does not have a cell phone), he hoofed up the trail to meet his limping niece. He took her pack and they walked down together in the dark.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY GEAR

CARRY THE CARD: If you need to be rescued while hiking, the most important piece of gear may be the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) Card.

COVERED FOR A YEAR: The $3 card (or $12 for five years) will cover rescue costs for one year, so that after being air-lifted out of the woods, you don't get socked with a debilitating bill for the helicopter. The cards cover only individuals, not entire groups.

AUTOMATIC COVERAGE: Anyone with a current hunting/fishing license, or boat, snowmobile, ATV registration is already covered by the fund. GET ON THE PHONE: You can purchase a card over the phone with a credit card by calling (970) 248-7310 or pick one up at local outdoor and hunting stores.

CALLING PLAN

Keep your phone turned off to conserve its battery, and bring an extra battery.

If you can't get service, climb to higher ground.

Bring the number of the local sheriff's office with you. Dialing 911 from a high peak can send the call to an operator in a different county, or even, in some cases, a different state.

Do not rely on your phone. Always go into the backcountry expecting to get out of any jams without using it.