[Paddlewise] Spot by Globestar

Does anyone on the list have a bSpotb by Globestar?  bSpotb is essentially a reverse GPS that sends a satellite help signal.  The signal includes the time and your latitude and longitude within an accuracy of 5 meters.  The help signal can be sent to 5 preprogrammed email addresses and 5 smart phones, or to local 911 services.  The device can be purchased through the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron for $169, plus a $100 annual service charge.

My intention is to extend my paddling season into the late fall months.  This device adds an extra layer of safety.  Survival time in 4C water is about 15 minutes.  Although a dry suit will extend this time, you donbt want to mess around.  Ibll be paddling in a city harbour that does have year-round harbour police and fire services.  Boat traffic will be limited because most of the Sailing clubs an Marinas do their haul outs in Mid-October.

Alternatives to bSpotb include EPIRBs.  The economy priced EPIRBs provide a locating capability of a 2.5km search area and a 2 hour response time.  This is slow and comparatively inefficient.  The more expensive GPS enabled EPIRBs are $1000 or more.  It seems to me that bSpotb is better $value$ then an EPIRB.  A waterproof cell phone is a viable option, but it requires a sequence of  multiple cell phone button presses to get a signal out.  Cell phone signal strength in waterfront areas can be inconsistent.  I do carry a VHF handheld, but this is only useful if someone is listening.

Is anyone familiar with the bSPOTb device?  Does anyone have any comments on its Functionality?  Durability?  Reliability?  Are the buttons positioned such that an accidental alarm is unlikely? Does anyone have any additional wisdom on this topic?

Derek

Additional Info: http://www.satellitecomsource.com/page.php?id=44

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