Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are urging snowfield visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for emergencies after responding to skiers in the Bogong High Plains.

Friends Michelle McRae and Jon Miller were recently rescued by a team effort from AV, Victoria Police and SES, after unexpected gear failures left them stuck overnight in blizzard conditions while on a ski touring expedition.

“We were well-equipped for the possibility of extreme conditions and being in the elements longer than expected,” Michelle said.

“We’re both experienced in wilderness expeditions, so we knew the tasks that needed to be done to keep safe when conditions worsened – like preventing snow build up on and around our tent, and ensuring the tent was adequately vented.”

AV alpine senior team manager Jonathan Hopkins said the rescue was a great example of skiers being ready for an emergency in the snow and helped ensure everyone’s safety during the blizzard.

“With Michelle and Jon well-equipped to endure the night in severe conditions, it prevented emergency services from conducting a high-risk rescue,” he said.

“The pair could camp out overnight and wait for the extreme weather to pass – rescued the following day in much better conditions.

“It’s a timely reminder to always plan for the worst-case scenario.”

Michelle and Jon both carried personal locator beacons (PLBs) but were able to use a phone to call for help, informing the Triple Zero (000) call taker of their location a number of ways, including their coordinates, via the What3Words app and a photo with their location pinpointed on a topographical map.

If you’re heading to the mountains during the rest of this year’s snow season, there are steps you can take to keep safe:

• Know your limits and plan for the unexpected.

• Carry safety gear, including a charged phone and navigation equipment.

• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

• Access can take time – so pack like help’s not just minutes away.

If you do need help, make it easier for emergency crews to reach you:

• Download the free Emergency Plus app or What3Words app, which help pinpoint your exact location – essential in vast or unmarked areas.

• Have a visible marker if possible, such as a brightly colored item of clothing or pack.

• Stay put once you’ve called for help, unless directed otherwise by Triple Zero (000).

• Keep your phone on and conserve battery, so paramedics can contact you or locate you via emergency systems.