Apple devices have many features that allow users to easily contact emergency services. This time, Rick Shearman found himself in trouble after being swept away by rough seas in Byron Bay, Australia. Luckily, he was able to call for help thanks to his Apple Watch Ultra.
Man Lost at Sea Saved by Apple Watch
As reported by Australia ABC NewsShearman was bodysurfing at Tallow Beach when he got stuck in an impact zone where the waves were breaking. “I took a couple of big hits to the head and I was underwater for a while, I started to panic a bit and get some underwater cramps in that area,” Shearman said.
Although Shearman is an experienced surfer and swimmer, he realised he was in trouble after trying in vain to find a channel that would take him back to shore. “After about 20 minutes it became clear I wasn’t going to make it and I needed help.”
Since his partner on the beach thought the surfer had gone shopping, no one really looked for him. But Shearman was wearing his Apple Watch Ultrawhich has a built-in cellular connection. He then called Australian emergency services, who stayed on the line for an hour until help arrived.
“At that point I was way out at sea, being buffeted by wind and big waves, it was actually quite difficult to use [the watch]. I had to hold it to my ear to hear what was happening and talk to the responder.” But despite the difficulties, Shearman was rescued and is doing well.
The Apple Watch has been certified water-resistant to 50 meters since Series 2. Apple Watch Ultrawhich has a more robust design to withstand the toughest scenarios you can imagine, water resistance has been increased to a depth of up to 100 meters.
A lifeguard on the beach said the Apple Watch was a game changer in rescues, as an operation like this in the open ocean could take hours or even days. “It’s amazing that I was able to use this technology to save my life,” Shearman said of his Apple Watch.
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