Personal Locator Beacons Save Lives

Personal locator beacons use satellite-based technology instead of cell phone towers for connectivity. As such, they have greater reliability when it comes to accessing help in an emergency than cell phones alone and require no annual subscription fees - making it a cost-effective safety solution for anyone venturing outdoors or out onto the water regularly.

These portable emergency locator beacons, more commonly referred to as PLB or EPIRB devices, are essential emergency safety equipment. By transmitting their unique distress signal via Cospas-Sarsat satellite network on 406 MHz frequency, PLB/EPIRB devices provide rescue authorities with vital distress information if you become lost or injured while outdoors. Not only can they transmit distress signals but some models even feature built-in compass for waypoint tracking so rescuers can follow your path back if you become disoriented or injured while out and about!

When activated, this device emits a loud distress signal that can be heard over vast distances and detected by aircraft or land-based sensors. Once received by rescue coordination centers around the world, this message is automatically relayed back to you; local search and rescue teams are then dispatched quickly to your location depending on what kind of emergency arises; ultimately local authorities are informed and quickly travel to help.

PLB owners and users certainly hope they never need them, but their incredible rescue speed makes PLBs invaluable when it comes to saving lives. When used properly, an average of 30 minutes should pass before someone found after going overboard on a boat is located when using a PLB compared to more than 90 minutes when using traditional life jacket and MOB markers such as Danbuoy/Johnbuoy combinations are used as rescue aid.

As these devices become increasingly prevalent, manufacturers are adding additional features to their devices. Some offer navigation tools like compass and waypoint programming; other models, like Spot Gen 3 and Zoleo have tracking features which enable you to upload your track online or share it with specific recipients.

Note that emergency beacons should only ever be activated during serious accidents or injuries. Any misuse can result in fines or imprisonment, so registration and update of information on a regular basis are vital in making the most out of your beacon device and ensure it will always be there when needed.