Over half of emergency calls to MREW and the British Cave Rescue Council come from mobile phones, and they are increasingly used for navigation among walkers, but managing battery life can still be an issue.

Varta has launched a free infographic to help people ensure they are preserving battery life and using mobile phones effectively in emergency situations, as well as partnering as a sponsor of MREW for the next three years.

Andy Simpson, Press Officer for MREW, said: “We all know the British weather can be unpredictable. It is important to be prepared.
“Mobile phones have a mixed reputation in the outdoors community and they should never be your only way of navigating or summoning help, however they are becoming much more reliable and a way of pinpointing exact location. With that in mind, there are a few simple things you can do to make sure you are safe – making sure they are charged, carrying spare power, registering with the emergency SMS service and so on. We’re delighted Varta is helping us spread this vital message.”

When carried out safely, hiking, walking and climbing are some of the nation’s favourite activities and go hand-in-hand with camping.

You can also take a look at the Club’s Mountain Activity Section to find out more about its walking and cycling activities.

VARTA and MREW’s top tips for summoning help on a mobile

• Rescuers may be able to locate you using the rapidly improving SARLOC technology.
• Fully charge phones and spare power banks before you set off, check network coverage and agree emergency contacts.
• Pack your phone and power packs somewhere warm and dry – showers can strike at any time.
• Nominate one phone in your party to be switched on for emergencies and others switched off to preserve power.
• If signal is poor, stand still to maintain connection or head to higher ground.
• Shelter the microphone from the wind and increase volume settings. Send a text if voice calls are too difficult.