Police are reiterating warnings to bushwalkers after another search and rescue response was launched to rescue 4 bushwalkers near Mount Anne in the Southwest National Park.
Around 10.30am this morning police received a call from bushwalkers after several tents were destroyed overnight during strong and gusty winds. The weather prevented the party from walking out of the area and concerns were held due to further deterioration of weather conditions.
The rescue helicopter responded with weather hampering efforts, requiring a walking party to be inserted to aid the bushwalkers. Just after 2.30pm this afternoon rescue personnel consisting of a police rescue officer and a flight paramedic reached the bushwalkers.
The rescue is continuing, with the bushwalkers not expected to be extracted from the area for several hours.
A severe weather warning had been issued in recent days including for that area, and due to those forecasts it is remarkable that bushwalkers chose to continue.
Whilst the group was well prepared with necessary equipment, not recognising the risks associated with those warnings has placed the party and responding search and rescue personnel in danger. Police again remind those venturing outdoors to monitor weather warnings and consider the impact of the weather on their activities.
Other essential safety considerations include;
· Taking sufficient communication devices including mobile phones, charging banks and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB's)
· Ensuring sufficient emergency food, water and spare clothing is carried in the event the length of the trip extends
· Research impending weather conditions for the area and do not continue with plans where inclement weather is due.
