EE enables mountain rescue mast

EE has enabled the use of a 35 metre mast located at the base of Ben Nevis, for use by Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team in search and rescue operations.

Photo credit: Lochaber Mountain Rescue.

The organisations have collaborated to deploy a single antenna as well as cable to the structure, thereby enabling greater range. According to figures quoted by EE, LMRT has responded to 17 call-outs in the two months since roll-out.

Discussing the logistics of the operation, a spokesperson said: “The area attracts more than 400,000 visitors per year. [The mast] is in a prime location to support LMRT’s need for ‘shadow coverage’. That is, lighting up areas which previously received no coverage due to ‘shadows’ caused by the natural terrain, as well as eradicating a coverage not-spot at the very top of the Glen.

“As well as providing connectivity to EE customers living in the area - and 999 coverage to all visitors -, the mast is also a part the UK Home Office’s Emergency Services Network.”

LMRT secretary and medical officer, Ian Pooleman, said: “Communications play a vital role in all of our rescue operations. We primarily use VHF radios to communicate with our base and other team members on the hill.