This is very BAD. When I was a climbing ranger a time long ago in a place far away, there was a report of an injured hiker. At that time our particular park didn't have a contract helicopter. The Coast Guard was called in with one of there BIG ships ('chopper). In the fog they ran into the side of a mountain. Four crew members lost there lives, the injured hiker walked out.
There is so much more to it than who is going to pay for it. You better be damn sure you CAN'T get out under your own power before you push that button or dial 911.
There is a good though very brief story on the cost of rescues to various National Parks in the last High Country News.
I can see in the future that when you get your backcountry permit you will be asked if you have a spot device. If you have one they will inform you that if the "rescue" button or whatever is activated you WILL be evacuated (none of this three time stuff). And that you may be charged and that it may cost you a 5 digit sum.
I'm sorry for the rant and I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir but this is something that hits way to close to home.
John
THINK BEFORE YOU PUSH
