I was wondering if anyone uses a spot, satellite phone or something of similar nature in case someone is seriously injured. Just looking for ideas here all are appreciated.

I use a SPOT satellite tracker, which is probably the most affordable means of summoning emergency help.

I have used a Spot Satelite phone for the last three years. Prior to that I rented an Iridium satelite phone. Both of them work reasonably well for short conversations. If you are on them for more than five minutes, they tend to drop the call.

The reason I purchased Spot was for two reasons: the phone was on a promotion and only cost $250 and you could buy prepaid minutes for a reasonable price. The next year, they dropped the prepaid card and made you buy either a $50 a month for a year commitment or $600 for the year. That was still nearly reasonable when I did 37 days of tripping and some hiking in the mountains. This year they eliminated that plan and now the cheapest plan is over $1,000 per year so I will go back to renting.

When I am solo for over three weeks and over 70, I want to have help just in case. When the anologue phone system was up and running, it worked very well. Then they went to digital and it didn’t work so that’s when I went to satellite.

When my dad (72 yrs) started having heart related issues, we started taking a satellite phone when we go to quetico for our dads-n-lads trip. He rents it for the week from a web based company. I think it’s about $40-50 and it’s a pretty easy process. They mail it to him with a prepaid return envelope and he mails it back.

I use a SPOT. It is good to be prepared for any emergency.

In addition to the S.O.S. button, you can pre-program other messages before the trip. When I'm solo, I send a "Hi honey, I'm enjoying my trip" message to my wife everyday. It gives her some peace of mind.

In 2015, a deadly and unexpected thunderstorm came through at 2am while I was solo. I was okay but I was pretty sure my wife was worried about me. I sent her the "I'm okay" message because I know she was worried.

Even on tandem trips, if something happened to me while deep in the wilderness, it would be very difficult for my traveling partner to exit the wilderness solo to get help.

The SPOT allows for friends and family to track your movements on a map if you want to turn on that feature. Kinda fun for those at home.

I rent my SPOT. I rent from an online company and they ship the SPOT to my home. There are dozens of places to rent them. Just do a Google search. If you use it more than two weeks per year then it might make more sense to purchase a SPOT and pay for the subscription.

In Woodland Caribou Provincial Park, I rent a satellite phone as communication with the floatplane pilot is sometimes required for pick-up coordination if you're deep in the wilderness.

I bought an InReach two years ago. I can sign up for monthly plans, and it does texting. And it can give weather reports for your GPS area.

I believe there are places to rent them as well.

Garmin InReach

ACR ResQLink. The most reliable by a mile, absolutely no comparison if all you want is a reliable rescue. They have no monthly or yearly fees but do not text or communicate. All the others have a lot of documented failures. They are around 250.00 and will need battery replacement every 5 years by the factory.

Minnesotian: "


I bought an InReach two years ago. I can sign up for monthly plans, and it does texting. And it can give weather reports for your GPS area.


I believe there are places to rent them as well.


Garmin InReach "

+1 for the newer two-way texting. In reality you will probably be more likely to be calling in rescue for others. With the two-way texting everyone will know exactly what happened. In reach and Spot 3 do this. In reach uses Iridium and Spot is Globalstar system. Iridium makes a profit but Globalstar loses big money every year and may be why the Satellite phone packages from them were raised so high

mgraber: "ACR ResQLink. The most reliable by a mile, absolutely no comparison if all you want is a reliable rescue. They have no monthly or yearly fees but do not text or communicate. All the others have a lot of documented failures. They are around 250.00 and will need battery replacement every 5 years by the factory."

I did some internet "research" and did see that ACR ResQ has the best coverage, even more than Garmin, and I personally like the fact that not two way text, or even one way, as I don't really like the idea of having the ability to communicate when in the wild, BUT my question is, in an emergency situation, do wilderness rescue like the ability to communicate back? Is the two way text ability of Garmin superior for that reason?

I use the ACR reQlink also. Most reliable and no subscription fee. Mine is now at the five year mark and the cost of battery replacement almost equals a new device so will likely just replace it with a new one. I don’t want texting or messaging capability so it works well for me canoeing in the BW or Q as well as hiking in the mountains in AZ.
I do rent a spot once a year for my solo just so they know to look for me if I fail to return. Only used by others to track me

ACR ResQLink also.

Strictly capable only of summoning rescue, uses the same satelite emergency system used by Governments around the world. ACR ResQLink
10X signal power (4+watt transmitting vs .4 for sat phones, Spot, Inreach), world coverage, min battery lifetime to 50% 5 years.
If you need messaging it will not do that. I keep my registration up to date with description of current trip info, where/when/parking/trip description.

butthead

I enjoy been carrying an ACR resqlink but sometimes added a sat phone to allow for 2 way communication in an emergency. I’m combining both functions in a garmin inreach explorer+. In an emergency I think it is helpful to be able to provide info and know that the rescue folks are coming and let family know exactly what happened (often you will use the device for someone else and so it could be handy to let family know that.) See some of the recent rescue threads in the listening point forum.

I don’t want to be texting other than emergencies and so just won’t tell people how to reach me. I might use it on some trips to deal with pickups.

I might still carry the ACR just because it is so small. Can’t hurt to have a backup. There are good reasons why they are excellent at their one function.

Lailoken: "

mgraber: "ACR ResQLink. The most reliable by a mile, absolutely no comparison if all you want is a reliable rescue. They have no monthly or yearly fees but do not text or communicate. All the others have a lot of documented failures. They are around 250.00 and will need battery replacement every 5 years by the factory."

I did some internet "research" and did see that ACR ResQ has the best coverage, even more than Garmin, and I personally like the fact that not two way text, or even one way, as I don't really like the idea of having the ability to communicate when in the wild, BUT my question is, in an emergency situation, do wilderness rescue like the ability to communicate back? Is the two way text ability of Garmin superior for that reason?
"

Lailoken, I can tell you as an emergency services dispatcher, it's extremely helpful to have communication with people who are lost/injured in out of the way spots. We are in a city that's pretty much 95% urban sprawl, but we have one very large park in the north part of our city that is a spiderweb of hiking and biking trails and people get lost or injured in there all the time. If we have contact with the victims, it makes the rescue 100% easier. I would assume that's dramatically even more vital/useful with wilderness rescues.

Thank you. Would you take In-Reach's lesser connection for the ability to two way text over the ACR ResQ then?

I personally would favor the INreach. A very nice feature of the Inreach is the ability to send a "custom" SOS message. This could be very helpful in the crucial beginning stages of "unique" rescue situation. But the "default" SOS message allows you to have communication (via text) with the emergency response service, as does the "custom".

The portal (web site) that you sync with your inreach all your info is very user friendly.

Add a 1:24000 topo maps on the Explorer+ , with ability to add more-.Here’s the lowdown on the maps that come with the InReach Explorer+. Note that the maps are not available on the InReach SE. The Explorer+ sold in North America comes preloaded with USA, Canada, and Mexico topo maps.The USA and Canada maps are 1:24k scale.
The Mexico map is 1:125k scale.
The GPS function is NOT as great as a dedicated GPS but I was able to tell 10' of horizontal difference between me and the Inreach and my son with the Earthmate app on his phone. (Yes you can track both as long as your in Bluetooth range , I think? ) The Earthmate app lets you control many aspects of the Inreach via a phone,tablet etc-- via Bluetooth - which is helpful reading maps (larger screen) and sending custom texts etc. The GPS with maps (previously no GPS for me- so that might be a game changer for some) is what set me over the edge and I purchased the Explorer+ today. The price is way cheap for the features you get + the option of cancelling/ re-starting service on your terms is very nice. The ACR ResQ just didn't fit my needs. I know some that carry both as "two is one and one is none". Choose what fits your needs the best.

One thing, however, is certain. Since I splurged - Garmin will be releasing the upgrade to the Explorer+ very soon....

Whitewolf, I have the same fear. Especially because the Explorer+ was on sale when I bought it recently.

Me too. My wife forced me into "having something" as we are taking a very remote VRBO vac in Montana with no chance of cell coverage. (hours to get to cell service) She is type 1 diebatic since age 3 and is concerned. Little does she know (actually she does) that this purchase opens more opportunities for BW/Q events for myself. (more solo which I want) I always wanted one but couldn't justify the cost. When the better half says yes--- why not?


BTW - I love the unit so far and the ease of changing things (personal info) on the web site.
Garmin has done wonders with the Inreach per the info I have gotten from BeaV when it was Delorme. The GPS (maps) is not great,-- the actual GPS and navigation is good and will work in a pinch, but not like a dedicated GPS- but a combo. I personally now have a safety device that can be used for navigation in a pinch-- I don't see that anywhere else in the market at this writing.

We use an older spot gen 2. I like the features of some of the newer models but just haven't made the jump yet.

We decided to start carrying one when the young kids started coming along. Plus, the tracking is nice so our daughter can see where we are when she stays back with grandma.

For work, I have a couple InMarSat satellite telephones, and I always take one out in the BWCA. There is nothing like real time two-way communication when you need it. I always consider it's not just for me and what might happen - but for others who may need immediate assistance, or something as simple as changing their pick-up time with an outfitter.

The severe storms up there in canoe country as I enter this message are going to reinforce the need for two-way texting.

I have the pre-Garmin Delorme InReach and I like it a lot. I have not had an issue with signal even in heavy overcast conditions. The weather feature is nice, and my wife appreciates the 'all is well' updates, especially now that I take my 10 YO with.

Lailoken: "

I did some internet "research" and did see that ACR ResQ has the best coverage, even more than Garmin, and I personally like the fact that not two way text, or even one way, as I don't really like the idea of having the ability to communicate when in the wild, BUT my question is, in an emergency situation, do wilderness rescue like the ability to communicate back? Is the two way text ability of Garmin superior for that reason?
"

I'm not trained wilderness rescue nor do I have any first hand experience in it but I can't imagine an emergency scenario that would warrant using a device like this that can't be improved by having the ability to communicate with rescuers.

I'm thinking back to the recent threads regarding rescues that have happened lately and both threads mention rescuers pumping people for as much information as possible. Any info they can get ahead of time can help make rescue quicker and can also help make sure that the rescuers are informed about the nature of the emergency and are able to be prepared for it when they get there.

I understand not wanting the ability to communicate in the wilderness but for me that only applies to cell phone and SAT phones being used for non-emergency situations. I don't see any reason to factor in the desire to remain communication free when deciding on what unit to get. The only time you'd use that communication would be in an emergency situation and at that point wilderness ideals go out the window in favor of getting help as fast as possible. If the need to use it arises I'm guessing you'd like to have the ability to get more information to the people that need it. Even if its to tell your family back home that you are ok but are using it for someone else, it could save a lot of stress on their end.

Thanks, will leave it off, not download maps, etc, but if need it, can two way communicate then.

Lailoken: "Thanks, will leave it off, not download maps, etc, but if need it, can two way communicate then."

Exactly, no reason to use it outside of that rare emergency situation.

These threads are always interesting. I bought a Spot only for my wife's peace of mind. One time because of my error - and a common one - she didn't get the message. With research, I discovered my error and the "I'm ok" message has always gotten through. For $140/yr, works for me. In the US and most of Canada it's clearly strong enough. And I don't want messages back. Clearly, a case where YMMV is very true.

This is not the case. I have a Spot. . .the original one the first year they came out. I have never changed the battery and it still works like new. It has also never failed to send a message when there was clear view of the sky.

Many of the "fails" with Spots is the users don't read the manual and understand how they work. They need a clear view of the sky. Also, the message is not "instant". My practice was to set up an "I'm okay, just checking in" message for button one. Second button was "I need to be picked up, non-medical emergency". I would input the outfitter for this message. The last button is the SOS

I would put the Spot on a rock in clear view of the sky, push the first button and leave it. Maybe 30 minutes later I would turn it off. Never failed to send the message.

when I take groups up to BWCA, I would program in the wive's cell phone numbers and emal addresses for each guy in the group and it would send a message to all.

Never replaced a battery. Never failed to send. And my plan is $100 per year.

Minnesotian: "


I bought an InReach two years ago. I can sign up for monthly plans, and it does texting. And it can give weather reports for your GPS area.


I believe there are places to rent them as well.



Garmin InReach "

I use one as well. The texting feature is a big comfort for my wife on my solo trips.

ockycamper: "Never replaced a battery. Never failed to send. And my plan is $100 per year."

Since 2008 or earlier, original batteries?
Go buy some, AAs are not that expensive.

butthead

ockycamper - I would ask you to look at your bills and verify that you are only paying $100/year. I know that is what I paid 7 years ago - basic service without tracking. I looked at my current (this past October) invoice on line and see that last October I was charged (of course in the Spot manner of just automatically charging card on file without notice) $201.21. That included:

Description Service Period Charges
SPOT Annual
Network Maintenance 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 14.99
SPOT: 911 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 0.00
SPOT: Check 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 149.99
SPOT: Custom 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 0.00
SPOT: Help 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 0.00
SPOT: Search 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 17.95
SPOT: Tracker 10/01/2017 -- 10/31/2017 0.00

Total Service Charges and Credits 182.93

Plus "Taxes and Surcharges 18.28"

Now, I never signed up for the search. I've loaned this a number of times to folks here and I think it got turned on, as did the tracking before that was not an option. I will cancel that starting this October. I don't believe within US there is any need whatsoever for that.

Bigger decision is will I keep this at all at around $180/year. AT $100 year, not so bad - but this is getting out of hand. I probably will look into sat phones someday, so its easier to be out longer, use the I 68 program, and maybe do a little data.

I have paid $99 every year since I bought the unit. Every year we do the same "dance". They raise the price to include tracking. I tell them I have the version 1 unit that does not have tracking and don't want to pay for it. I remind them of the years I have had the service. They talk to the boss and I get $99. Then I renew the insurance for $12.

Never saw the point in tracking if you have botton one which shows your location.

All this discussion on satellite devices has me rethinking my own practice of carrying a Spot and going without any device. People went without for a long time - even folks here.

I am so pleased to see so many turning to the newer two-way texting devices. Mainly for what it does for the rescue crews. If they know it's a blown knee and not a heart problem they do not have to take extra risks to get to you. Those we have at home are the second best reason. A third reason is it allows us to be responsible for our own evacuation. If floatplanes can land and our issue is not life threatening we can call in a n and be picked up with all our gear. The rescue people can stay with their families rather than bailing us out. You need to get your gear out sometime because the rescue crews is only there to take you, your gear stays.

I did not get the Spot for just BWCA trips. I take it hunting, hiking, bike rides. Any outdoor activity. You are paying for the year, why not use it? That's where the messaging comes in. For hunting season. . .button 1 is "I'm fine". button 2 is "i need help hauling a deer out". I program the first for my wife. The second to a friend with a truck.

For bike rides. Same thing. First button "I'm fine". SEcond buton "I broke down and need to be picked up at this location".

When used year round, Spot is a backup to cell phone.

I did not get the Spot for just BWCA trips. I take it hunting, hiking, bike rides. Any outdoor activity. You are paying for the year, why not use it? That's where the messaging comes in. For hunting season. . .button 1 is "I'm fine". button 2 is "i need help hauling a deer out". I program the first for my wife. The second to a friend with a truck.

For bike rides. Same thing. First button "I'm fine". SEcond buton "I broke down and need to be picked up at this location".

When used year round, Spot is a backup to cell phone.