Yet another example of a backcountry explorer who could have used a cell phone and a cell phone charger ($19.00). Fortunately, this time the lost person lived.
People entering wilderness areas are much better off with a registered PLB.
Cell phone service in the backcountry is exremely spotty. In fact, cell phones lead to "negative risk compensation". That means a hiker attempts things s/he would not normally attempt figuring if they get in trouble they can use the cell to call for help.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergency_Position-Indicating_Radio_Beacon
These are better 'cause they work anywhere but still lead to people doing things they shouldn't be doing.
i doubt that there was a cellphone signal available anywhere near where this woman was camping in the wilderness.
I agree with you, she should have had a cell phone. But I wondered why the brothers did not have a cell phone either?
And then they left her all alone while they both together went for help together? Perhaps she wanted it that way?
Most of NM has no cell coverage. I'm only 20 miles from Albuquerque and nada, zip, zilch.