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Does anybody have one of these? If so are you using it like you should and are you happy with the service, fees, set up procedure, etc.
I've had the DeLorme Inreach for several years. Works great....and two way communication, compared to the Spot system one way.
Spot wouldn't work for me... I recreate alone in the back country. Often change destinations or stay late if the fish are biting. I can let the OL know about changes in plans.
Note to InReach users...you can use the emergency system to have them call in for a tow in the back country. They don't mind you using it for non-life threatening situations.
I haven't used it that way, but Delorme used to (before they were purchased by Garmin) display a daily log of emergency calls they received each month...and I was surprised at the number of broken down vehicle SOS's they responded to.Krusty,
Have you done this? I broke down deep in the woods this summer and could have really used this option.
You are, of course, referring to the 'one-way' systems like Spot. The DeLorme Inreach (now Garmin Inreach) allows easy two-way communication. Even if you activate the SOS initiation sequence (takes a couple of steps, which serves to prevent accidental initiation) it's just the start of the discussion with their emergency response center....so SARS air cav won't be risking their lives (and your bank account) coming out because your car broke down in the sticks.Problem with those is the lack of control over the type of response.
"satellite signaling devices of last resort, for use when all other means of self-rescue have been exhausted, where the situation is grave with imminent danger and the loss of life, limb, eyesight or valuable property will occur without assistance."
You set one of those off and every search & rescue org in the area is mobilized. Maybe you just need a tow. They send a helicopter!
Units like this put a great deal of stress of our already over burdened SAR facilities. Having been on the other side of this, I'm just glad these things weren't around when I served.