We have, or should have, a healthy national guard force - whose advertizing as far back as I can remember - has featured people being rescued or aided in all kinds of predicaments.
Why should we start having to "pay" for what is
already paid for in the form of real training for these units? Before individual climbers, skiers etc have to shell out for a bond or pay for this kind of thing - our hospitals need to put a complete stop on treating illegal aliens and not one cent of our tax money leaving the country in the form of "foreign aid". I am sick of paying for these people while being primed up to expect to have to dig into my pocket every time my feet hit the ground anywhere other than my own home.
As to these climbers; I keep reading about these guys "travelling light". Just
how light did they go? What did they take, and not take, with them?
There are two general but not rigid approaches to tackling high mountains. One is the conventional approach with equipment as needed, extras and support. The other is the old "alpine ascent" - light and fast. However, in terms of surviving low temps and a moderate stay at altitude it does not necessarily involve an excessive amount of gear or an enormous weight. A down sleeping bag or suit, a Goretex bivvy bag, a ground mat (essential) and a snow shovel will ensure one does not freeze to death.
The rest is a matter of food - and
hydration. The latter more important than anything at altitude in extreme dry cold. And that means fuel; sufficient fuel to melt enough snow or ice for an extended bivouac. Food can be chosen as to be readily consumable cold and dry if needed.
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