Police issue further safety warnings and praise a bushwalker’s safety precautions after she was airlifted from her campsite today.
About 9pm on Friday 18 January 2019, a 43-year-old woman fell down a ledge while bushwalking near her campsite along Grasshill Fire Trail, Colo Heights.
She was able to return to her campsite with the assistance of friends she was with.
Due to being in a remote area, there was no mobile phone coverage, so she activated her Personal Locator Beacon, notifying emergency services of her location.
Officers from Hawkesbury Police Area Command, Blue Mountains Police Rescue, and the NSW Ambulance Rescue Helicopter were called to the location.
The woman was airlifted to Westmead Hospital, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
In light of the incident, police urge members of the public planning to bush walk to be well prepared for the conditions they will encounter.
Think before you TREK promotes the benefits of planning ahead for your bushwalking trip by using an easy to remember acronym:
T – Take adequate supplies of food, water, navigation and first aid equipment.
R – Register your planned route and tell friends and family when you expect to return.
E – Emergency beacon (PLB’s) are available free of charge from NSW Police Force and NPWS.
K – Keep to your planned route and follow the map and walking trails.
Hawkesbury Police Area Command’s Chief Inspector Garry Sims, says this is a timely reminder of the benefits of adequate bushwalking safety equipment.
“It’s extremely fortunate this woman was able to be rescued quickly and without further incident, and that is testament to her own safety preparation,” Chief Inspector Garry Sims said.
“I remind everyone planning to bushwalk to let someone know where you are going, and ensure you have all relevant safety equipment, including Personal Locator Beacons.
“We wish for all people to safely enjoy the great outdoors, however if you get into trouble, these precautions will ensure we can help you,” Chief Inspector Garry Sims said.
