Woman rescued after nine days in Arizona by writing 'help' with sticks
A pensioner who spent nine days lost in the forest of Arizona was rescued after writing the word 'help' in the ground using sticks.
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Ann Rodgers, 72, got lost in the White Mountains in eastern Arizona after her hybrid car ran out of petrol and battery on March 31.
She survived in the forest for nine days by drinking pond water and eating plants. Authorities came across her dog on Saturday and a DPS flight crew spotted a 'help' signal made of sticks and rocks on the ground.
Rodgers had left the area, but she was found nearby on the Fort Apache Reservation, home to the White Mountain Apache Tribe, after starting a signal fire.
She suffered from exposure but was said to be in a fair condition.
Terence Miyauchi, DPS Aviation Manager, told the Associated Press that travellers should ensure they know the route they intend to take and prepare for their trip.
"Motorists are always encouraged to know their route, plan their vehicle fuel accordingly and when appropriate, ensure others know their route of travel," he said.
It comes just days after three men were rescued by the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Islands after spelling the word 'help' on a beach using palm fronds.
The men had set off on a three-hour sailing trip from Pulap and were heading to Weno Island when their boat capsized and they were forced to spend a night swimming to the island of Fanadik.
According to the BBC, a U.S. Navy plane was dispatched when they were reported missing. The sailors were spotted waving brightly-coloured lifejackets next to the 'help' sign three days after they became stranded.
Spokesperson for the Coast Guard, Chief Petty Officer Sara Mooer, told CNN: "There are not a lot of resources in that region. It's very small and very remote."
