Hiking Injury on Earnslaw Burn Track Ends in PLB1 Rescue

What happened?

On the 31st of January, I set out on an overnight hike along the Earnslaw Burn Track with three friends. We began the walk at around 10:00am under clear, sunny skies. Although the weather was good, the track itself presented some challenges. Sections were muddy and slippery, and in several places we had to navigate around fallen trees and uneven terrain.

The hike was progressing well until around 4:00pm when I slipped and landed heavily on my hip. At first it seemed like a hard fall, but soon after I began to feel increasing muscle cramping and pain in my right leg. As time passed the pain intensified and started to affect my ability to walk normally and keep steady footing on the uneven ground.

I took ibuprofen in an attempt to manage the pain and reduce inflammation. Unfortunately, there was no noticeable improvement in my symptoms. With the help and support of my friends, who assisted me along the track, I was able to continue slowly toward the designated campsite. Despite the discomfort, we made it there safely and stayed overnight as originally planned.

By the following morning on 1 February, the pain in my right leg had not improved. Given the remote location of the Earnslaw Burn Track, the rough terrain, and the distance required to hike out, I made the decision that attempting to walk back could potentially worsen the injury. At 10:10am I activated the Ocean Signal Personal Locator Beacon we were carrying.

Rescue services responded quickly. A rescue helicopter arrived approximately one hour after the beacon activation and I was safely evacuated to Lakes District Hospital for further medical assessment.

Looking back, I am extremely grateful that we made the decision to bring the beacon. Having it with us meant that help could reach us quickly and allowed me to return home without risking further injury on the hike out.

Words of wisdom

Be prepared for the worst to increase your chance at survival!

Thank you note to the Ocean Signal team

Really appreciate the invention of the emergency beacon, it saves many lives from unthinkable tragedies.