Police are again urging bushwalkers to be prepared after two people called for help at Cradle Mountain overnight.

Emergency services were alerted to two men who had been walking in the national park, before they went off track and became stuck in extremely steep terrain just before 5.30pm last night.

The Burnie locals had trekked to the summit, with minimal food and water, a mobile phone and no equipment to spend the night in case of emergency.

The pair contacted emergency services requesting a rescue helicopter.

Police search and rescue officers, and Ambulance Tasmania wilderness paramedics walked in and assisted the walkers back to safety. Parks and Wildlife Services personnel also aided in the operation.

Inspector Steve Jones, Officer in Charge of Western Search and Rescue, said it was incredibly frustrating that police were forced to repeat the same warnings again and again.

“The rescue helicopter is a vital service, and available for genuine emergencies,” Inspector Jones said.

“It was a sunny, clear day at Cradle Mountain, and had the two walkers not gone off track, they would not have got lost.

“Bushwalkers should always prepare for the worst, and while the weather was great yesterday, that can change rapidly. Our emergency service personnel often put their own lives at risk during rescues, so it is frustrating when the situation could have been avoided.”

Police again urge all bushwalkers to follow these essential safety tips:

Be Prepared: Ensure you have appropriate equipment, including a map, torch, suitable clothing and footwear for all conditions, a waterproof jacket, adequate food, water, and a first aid kit.

Research Your Trip: Check the intended trip’s difficulty level and whether it aligns with your fitness and skill level. Always have a route plan, map, and check the expected weather forecast.

Inform Others: Let someone know about your planned route and expected return time before embarking on your journey.

Carry Communication Devices: Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Consider a portable charger to extend your phone’s battery life.

Be Mindful of Mobile Phones: While mobile phones can be helpful, they should not be relied upon as the sole means of communication and navigation during a bushwalking trip.

By adhering to these safety guidelines and respecting the environment, bushwalkers can significantly reduce the risk of getting lost or injured and ensure a safer and more enjoyable outdoor experience.