I'll add two and a half cents here and this is based on real world experience, including the two of us being the ones who responded to calls to go out find and rescue people - in the winter mountains on skis for over 25 years. Think about the worse winter mountain conditions you can imagine - been there, done that. Happy we could help, don't miss it one bit. Never thought of it as a fun activity, responding to someone's tragedy.
We have the InReach version of satellite communicator, but from what I understand, the new SPOT X has similar capabilities now.
We have two friends signed up as our emergency contacts. From experience, when the SOS message is sent, the dispatch center calls either of them to confirm it is an emergency. If dispatch cannot reach either of them immediately, the emergency is still immediately handed over to the local authorities. In California, the County Sheriff is responsible for search & rescue except in the National Parks.
Our two contacts have the same experience as us. They know how the system works - and how to help it along. Their job is to be our advocates, provide solid information about us and our activities and abilities, and make sure we get help. I am the emergency contact for both of them. As soon as I hear their SOS has been pushed, I'm going into action. These are people who would go anywhere to help us. We, without hesitation would do the same for them.
For responses to non emergency incidents, we'll work that out through the device's text messaging. And, we've discussed many possible scenarios.
I hope this information helps.
I think it is appropriate to add the following:
These devices do not guarantee that help can reach you in time or get you out in time in the event of an emergency.
It is essential that appropriate planning and precautions are taken when going to remote places such as:
- Checking the weather forecast and heeding warnings (hot or cold, rain, wind etc).
- Carry adequate food and water - not only in the camper but on you when hiking - plan for delayed return (disoriented, unplanned side trip, twisted ankle, whatever) and take extra water and energy bars.
- Carry up to date maps and a compass (batteries and electronics can and do fail).
- Know how to use the compass.
- Seek out and listen to local advice from knowledgeable local sources such as Rangers, guides and outfitters.
- Be mindful of your abilities and explore within your physical and equipment limitations.
- Have spares, extra food and water, defined plans shared with trusted people, emergency communication, etc. in case of unplanned problems.
- Don't take risks assuming your cell phone or emergency communicator will help if things go sideways.
- Always assume you will need to get yourself out if things break or there is an emergency, before venturing out - particularly if not travelling with a group/multiple vehicles.
Edited by ckent323, 18 August 2020 - 10:41 PM.
