Yuppie 911

[craig333]

I'd really like to have a spot or plb but I wonder if they'll still be useful after idiots like this get done abusing the system.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33470581/

 

[ScottBailey]

I'd really like to have a spot or plb but I wonder if they'll still be useful after idiots like this get done abusing the system.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33470581/


Yep. I may get one, still, but HAM is the way to go...

 

[Barko1]

Yep. I may get one, still, but HAM is the way to go...


I picked one up not long ago, the original model is selling cheap as they have a new version. I read that article last week, people wandering out unprepared figuring the Spot can summon help when they have gotten over their head or get uncomfortable. I carry it frequently, in the truck in case there is an accident or serious health issue and get stuck, use it on the dirt bike but usually have cell coverage, have my daughter carry it when she goes out solo with the dogs. Also just fun to keep people posted as to progress on a long road trip

 

[chnlisle]

Yep. I may get one, still, but HAM is the way to go...



Scott,Sent you a PM

 

[pvstoy]

I’ll probably get one next spring for those just in case when out in the back country, when we would really need one for life threatening event. Those people that just push the button without figuring out how to survive on their own should be fined. They are putting the rescue people at risk.

 

[highz]

I'd really like to have a spot or plb but I wonder if they'll still be useful after idiots like this get done abusing the system.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33470581/


Oh jeez. Maybe knowing they would have to pay for the rescue would make people think twice. Maybe not. It bothers me to see the technology abused so that rescuers are put at risk. I do like using my SPOT for sending a daily "OK" message to those who care when I'm traveling. It's also nice to know the "911" feature is there, if it's a real emergency.

I do worry about accidentally triggering the 911 button, though it would not be too easy to do it.

 

[BillM]

We've been using our SPOT for 2 years now. It is great for giving our families peace of mind when we are out exploring. They also enjoy being able to follow our trips through our OK messages. I travel some for work and sometimes can't get a cell signal so I use it to let my wife know where I'm at and that I'm OK. As for people misusing it, it's a shame but is going to happen. I agree that there should be a fine for pressing 911 in a non-life threatening situation.

If you only need a device for emergency situations you might look at the new McMurdo Fastfind 210 PLB. It's under $300 and does not require an annual fee although replacement batteries every 5 years are something like $170. I might pick one up so that my wife and I can each have a device when we are not together. It would also give us a backup in an emergency if one of the systems was down or one device failed.