Cellphone saved lost hiker’s life, police say

OPP say a cellphone may have helped to save the life of a lost Gananoque hiker after she was able to call police on a trail.

On Dec. 4 at about 5 p.m., Leeds and the Thousand Islands OPP were alerted to a hiker who had lost her way.

Police say the 51-year-old woman was lucky she had a cellphone with her and was able to contact police for help.

After a five-kilometre walk, Leeds OPP officers located her safe on the trails and escorted her back to her vehicle.

Leeds OPP commander Insp. Mike Francis reminds hikers to always plan their routes, bring maps and GPS and be prepared for adverse weather. Other tips include: Leave information about your whereabouts on the dash of your car, have a charged cellphone, food, water and medical supplies; always let someone know where you are going and when you think you’ll be back; and wear proper clothing and footwear.