Alberta cave rescue utilizes new underground radio technology

A caver has been successfully rescued after becoming trapped vertically in a tight passage known as the ‘Psych Squeeze’ at Rat's Nest Cave in Canmore, Alberta. The rescue operation, which involved 13 cave rescuers, 10 firefighters, and two Kananaskis Mountain rescue members, required the use of hammer drills to remove rock as the individual was eased out at a rate of inches per hour.

The operation marked the first live deployment of volunteer-built underground radio technology. Developed by members of Alberta/BC Cave Rescue, the new QDX-M system provides reliable text-based communication through more than 500 metres of solid rock. This technology was created to address the limitations of traditional analog radios, phones, and GPS, which often fail in deep underground environments. The new units are noted for being smaller and lighter than previous equipment.