The option of raising the alarm by text is now a reality. Many of the UK's mountains suffer from poor mobile phone coverage and yet increasing numbers of folk in the hills rely on their mobile as their primary piece of safety equipment. The majority of mountain rescue call outs are now initiated following a mobile phone call. However a text message will often still work where there's insufficient coverage to hold a conversation or when your battery is low and increases your chances of summoning help in an emergency.
The major phone providers in tandem with the emergency services have now rolled out a system of registration for those who feel they might need this service. Simply text 'register' to 999 and follow the instructions in the return text.
There is more on this story on the Grough Outdoor News site and at http://emergencySMS.org.uk
