Man rescued after following Google Maps ‘shortcut’ into trees on Utah mountain
WASATCH COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — A man was rescued from a Utah mountain after he followed a “shortcut” on Google Maps, according to officials.
The man, 23, was rescued at Strawberry Peak after midnight on Thursday, July 4. Wasatch County Search and Rescue said their teams responded to the scene, and the rescue took about three hours.
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Officials said the man was trapped in his car on the west side of Strawberry Peak.
“This was the shortcut that google recommended between Springville and Vernal,” Wasatch County Search and Rescue said on social media Friday.
The man was not injured, but he did need help getting off the mountain, according to officials.
How to prepare for a car emergency
The Utah Highway Patrol and Utah State Fire Marshal have offered some safety tips to be prepared in the event of a car-related emergency.
While their tips were more specifically geared toward a vehicle breaking down on the highway, several tips can be applied to several other situations — such as getting stranded on the side of a mountain.
Officials said your vehicle should be maintained and you should be prepared with tools and other items in case of an emergency.
You are encouraged to have a charged cell phone within reach with access to 911, phone numbers of your family members, and other emergency contact information. It would also be helpful to have the numbers of towing companies, your insurance agent, and auto repair shops.
UHP and the Utah State Fire Marshal said you should also have an “emergency preparedness pack.” In your emergency pack, it would be helpful to be prepared for a variety of different weather conditions.
Officials said you should have warm coats, hats, and gloves, as well as umbrellas, warm blankets, and raincoats. If possible, have some food and drink available, including water.
If your vehicle begins having trouble while on the road, Utah officials say you should turn on your hazard lights immediately and move the car to the side of the road — preferably the right side.
When on the side of the road, you are encouraged to keep your seatbelt on, the doors locked, and the windows closed.
After you are stopped, you should call 911 and let them know your car has broken down and you are vulnerable.
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