[Paddlewise] EPIRBs and alternatives.

EPIRBS:

For reference, Defender lists a 17.6 oz. manually activated 406
MHz EPIRB that also sends out a homing signal on 121.5 MHz for
$249.95.  However, it is not yet available to ship.  I spoke with
the manufacturer (ACR, 1-800-432-0227) about this unit and they
confirmed it was essentially identical in broadcast function to
the fancy $700-900 units, but without mounting brackets, auto
activation etc.  

406 EPIRBS work this way, the representative explained.  The 406
signal is received by satellite then relayed to the nearest
ground station (many round the globe but not in all countries). 
The ground station then contacts NOAA.  NOAA *telephones* one of
two registered numbers of persons who can confirm the travel
itinerary of the registered EPIRB owner (the EPIRB comes with a
card and a phone number to supply NOAA with this info.)  There is
also a backup phone number they use to confirm itinerary.  When
it is confirmed that the vessel is in the area from which the
signal originates, rescue operations can go forward. Note there
is a contact delay in this process just as in the 121.5 devices. 
Neither 121.5 or 406 achieve "instant" responses.  

What else can we do?  The discussion thus far has been about high
and higher tech solutions to emergency assistance.  But what else
can we do?  How can the community of boaters support each other
without delegation to some hi-tech government agency?  For
centuries mariners lent each other assistance in times of
difficulty.   Can we not continue to do so now?  Smoke and flares
and VHF are a potent combination if we all do our parts.  There
is a middle ground between "rugged" individualism go it alone,
and total technological dependence.  This discussion forum is one
example -- we share useful and timely information and cooperate
in solving mutual puzzles and problems.  Can we not do the the
same in paddling emergencies?  Where do kayakers fit in the
long-standing tradition of mutual assistance from mariners?  Are
we merely a potential nuisance, trouble about to happen, or can
we add to the collective support net?  What do we think?

RGM

Richard G. Mitchell, Jr.
mitchelr_at_ucs.orst.edu
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