In the Crestone Needle rescue, the ability to maintain two-way communications with rescuers was critical. The stranded climbers were able to discuss their situation, and the conversations with rescuers and family motivated them through a long, cold night.

To preserve battery power, rescuers instructed the pair to limit outside calls. Often, people who call for help start calling other people as well, draining their battery and leaving rescuers with no way to stay in touch. This pair preserved one phone throughout the night. But their calls to family members also created emotional hardship at home. The two were literally saying "good-bye," and one family member's call to the climbers went to voicemail, making the family fear the worst.

What would you do? Imagine you're stranded on an alpine peak in a potentially deadly storm. You've called for help and rescuers are on their way, but they might not reach you until the next day. Now your battery is under 20 percent, and you need to save power. Would you call your family anyway?