Swift Response: A Life-Saving Rescue After a Medical Emergency on the Island

1 lives saved

Jungle

Medical emergency

Normal conditions

What happened?

Our group of 20+ adults and 11 vehicles had just arrived at the camp after an exhilarating day of 4WD adventures and island exploration. As the evening settled in and we gathered for dinner, we were interrupted by a medical emergency. One of the older ladies in our group began experiencing a medical event. Despite having taken her medication, it became clear that it wasn’t enough to control the situation.

Soon, she was struggling to breathe and experiencing chest and arm pains, which left us all deeply concerned. During this panic, we quickly realized the gravity of the situation. We had multiple Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) with us, so we immediately activated one to signal for help. At the same time, one of our group members quickly made their way up the hill to try and find cellphone reception.

The tension was high, but within moments of finding a signal, we were able to get in touch with emergency services. To our relief, a helicopter was already on its way, having been alerted by the PLB. The professionalism and speed of the emergency response were astonishing.

In less than an hour from the time we set off the rescueME PLB3, the helicopter arrived. The medical team was able to provide the care she needed right there on the spot. She was airlifted to the nearest hospital, where doctors quickly stabilized her. Thanks to the fast and effective response, she was released the very next day, making a full recovery. What started as a terrifying moment for our group ended with a reminder of how crucial preparedness, quick thinking, and technology can be in ensuring that help arrives when it’s most needed.

Words of wisdom

Push the button, help will be on the way, stay calm.

Thank you note to the Ocean Signal team

Without the PLB, help would have been at least another hour away, and by then, it many have been too late.