One thing I think needs to be expressed as a "lesson learned" from the Aaron Sofer case is how people go on hikes and tiyulim.
It gets very hot in Israel in the summer. Even in the heights of the Jerusalem hills.
Do NOT go hiking in your wool suit and felt hat. Do not wear your shabbos shoes that give you no traction. Do NOT go without water, thinking it is only a short hike.
I don't know what to say about a cellphone. I understand the concern some people have about holding a cellphone. A mobile phone is something that is recent. People hiked without cellphones for a long time. Sure, it can make things more convenient and even help save lives in plenty of situations, but does that mean everyone should be obligated to hold one? I don't know. I might say it is smart to take a cellphone on a hike, and make sure the battery is full and maybe take a spare battery pack, but should it be obligated? I dont know. And anyways, I have been on plenty of hikes and tiyulim where the batteries ran out in the middle, so I dont think obligating one to carry a cellphone necessarily solves the problem.
So, a cellphone is probably a good idea to include in your carry items for a tiyul, but I am hesitant to say it should be obligatory.
When you go on a tiyul, please follow basic safety rules. Make sure you have water - a lot of water. 3-4 liters per person, at least Make sure you are dressed appropriately - a sun hat, light clothing - both light in color and light in weight and heat, appropriate shoes. maybe a walking stick - it helps with balance, and can also relieve some stress on the body. Get familiar with your route and take a long a map of the area. Don't split up from your hiking partner for no good reason.
and more water.
Be safe.
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