Man swept away by rough seas saved by Apple Watch Ultra, rescued after smartwatch sends emergency call.
The Apple Watch has been hailed as a life-saving device with numerous stories online detailing how the wearable has rescued individuals in life-threatening situations. A recent incident further highlights the device’s life-saving capabilities, as an Apple Watch Ultra played a vital role in saving a man who was swept away by rough seas. According to a report by ABC News, an experienced surfer found himself in trouble in a powerful impact zone and was unable to make his way back to shore. Fortunately, he was wearing an Apple Watch Ultra and was able to call for help using the smartwatch.
Despite his surfing and swimming experience, the man could not find a safe route back to shore and realized he needed immediate help. “After about 20 minutes, it became clear that I wasn’t going to go back in and I needed help,” he said, speaking to ABC News.
“I handled a couple of big ones on the head and was held under it for a while. I started to panic a bit and was cramping under the water there,” he added.
How the Apple Watch Ultra saved a surfer’s life
Fortunately, Australian surfer Shearman was wearing an Apple Watch Ultra, which has built-in cellular connectivity. Shearman managed to reach 911 on his watch and the call remained active for an hour until emergency crews reached him.
“At this point I was a long way out to sea, the wind and big waves were hitting me, it was actually quite difficult to use [the watch]. I had to hold it to my ear to hear what was going on. and talk to the responder,” he explained.
For those who don’t know, the Apple Watch Ultra is made for active sports enthusiasts and is known for its improved durability and water resistance up to 100 meters. The features proved critical in saving Shearman.
