Rescue teams were immediately redeployed with warm clothing, food and water for the exhausted hikers. Safety precautionsWSAR members said this incident highlights the importance of allowing rescue teams to intervene as early as possible. WSAR said accepting assistance early can often prevent a manageable incident from becoming a prolonged rescue. Importance of early interventionEarly intervention provides the greatest number of safe and effective options for both hikers and rescuers. Hikers are also instructed to stay where they are after requesting assistance unless the situation becomes unsafe or rescue teams advise otherwise.