How Not to Send a False SOS from Your Smartphone
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Smartphone SOS Features Save Lives, But False Alarms Remain a Challenge in BC Backcountry
July 9 2026 - Features like Apple’s Crash Detection, Emergency SOS via satellite, and similar tools on smartphones and smartwatches have helped rescuers reach people in genuine backcountry emergencies across BC.
At the same time, accidental activations continue to send Search and Rescue (SAR) teams on unnecessary missions, particularly as warmer weather increases backcountry traffic.
BC’s steep mountains and remote trails make verification difficult.
In areas without cell service, dispatchers often cannot quickly call back to confirm whether an alert is real or accidental. Teams must treat every signal seriously, frequently deploying helicopters, ground crews, and volunteers, a significant use of limited resources.
The issue of false SOS calls gained attention in late 2022 when the iPhone 14’s Crash Detection feature led to multiple false calls in areas like Golden and Revelstoke, sometimes triggering helicopter responses.
In August 2025, Vernon Search and Rescue responded to a backcountry “person on fire” alert from an iPhone SOS text that proved false; other BC teams reported similar glitches.
In November 2025, Coquitlam SAR was called to a remote area near Indian Arm after an accidental Apple Watch activation.
While winter activity (skiing, snowmobiling) also triggers some alerts, summer sees more people venturing farther into the backcountry.
These technologies are valuable when needed, but false activations divert resources from real emergencies.
The good news is that most are preventable.
What You Can Do to Help Reduce False Alerts
Update your iPhone and Apple Watch to the latest software.
Review Emergency SOS settings (e.g., disable automatic side-button dialing on your Watch if preferred).
Use a case or secure storage to prevent accidental presses.
If an alert triggers accidentally, stay on the line or reply and clearly cancel it, do not just power off the device.
Register dedicated beacons (PLBs or satellite messengers) and store them securely.
By checking your device settings before heading out, you can help keep SAR teams focused on those who truly need assistance. Stay safe and enjoy BC’s backcountry responsibly.
How Not to Send a False SOS from Your Smartphone