In an age where we are constantly connected to the outside world through phones and other smart devices, we often forget how quickly that link to help can be severed when we enter the backcountry. While cellular coverage continues to improve, there are many areas just a short distance from popular trailheads with almost no cell reception. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances of contacting help in the event of an emergency in the backcountry.

The first thing you can do is always carry your cell phone. While your phone may show that you do not have any cell coverage with your designated service provider, when you dial 911 in an emergency, your phone will attempt to connect to any available cell tower, even if it is not your service provider’s. If your call fails, you can also try to text emergency services, because a text may go through when a call cannot. If you are unable to contact emergency services through cell coverage, another option that may be available is satellite messaging on your phone. Both Apple and Android now offer an SOS satellite messaging function on certain models of their phones. Both entities currently offer this function at no additional cost to the user. However, it is extremely important to look into the availability of this service on your phone and become familiar with how it works before you venture into the backcountry — try it out on your next hike.

There are certain minimum requirements, both in terms of the model of the phone as well as the version of the phone’s operating system, that must be met for SOS satellite messaging to work. Both phone manufacturers have step-by-step instructions, including videos and demonstrations, detailing the type of phone and software needed to use satellite messaging available online.

While cell phones are a great tool to contact help in a backcountry emergency, they come with their own limitations, which include a short battery life, only being able to text (via satellite) and questionable durability in extreme environments. In addition to a cell phone with satellite messaging capabilities, you should consider carrying a satellite communication device that is specifically designed for use in the backcountry. The advantages to one of these devices include longer battery life than a cell phone, often by a factor of days or weeks depending on use; a rugged case that is designed to withstand drops, exposure to moisture, and extreme temperatures; some allow you to make calls or send voice messages and photos, which can save time mobilizing a rescue; ongoing device tracking, which gives emergency responders a better idea of where to start their search; and most have the ability to provide updated weather forecasts, which can help avoid the need for rescue entirely.

The major drawback to these backcountry-specific devices is that they are an additional expense and require some sort of subscription plan. That said, many of these devices can be picked up for less than $200 and have flexible plans that allow you to deactivate them when not in use. 

None of the above-mentioned suggestions will prevent an emergency, and you should always tell someone where you are going, when they should expect you to return and who they should contact if you do not return. Nevertheless, taking the appropriate steps and having the proper communication equipment will significantly increase your chances of connecting with outside help in the event you find yourself or come upon someone in need of assistance in the backcountry.

“Get Wild” publishes weekly in the Summit Daily News. Mike Harrison is a volunteer wilderness ranger and trail crew member for Eagle Summit Wilderness Alliance.