Re: [Paddlewise] SPOT vs. PLB debate

From: Alex M <al.m_at_3web.net>
Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2009 22:41:10 -0800
> The first incident was a friend who was hiking in the California desert.
> Somehow he broke a leg and used his SPOT to summon assistance by pushing 
> the
> 911 button.
>
>
>
> The other was a friend who was ice climbing in the Sierra's who had a
> companion break a leg. They used an ACR PLB and a helicopter was 
> dispatched
> to pick them up.
>
>
>
> In both cases, it took about 3 hours from the time of the activation until
> they were rescued.

Confirms what has already been said few months ago - both can do, with SPOT 
having more limited coverage and more non-emergency functions than PLB, the 
latter being essentially world-wide (availability of local SAR services is a 
different matter).  Last version of ACR "fix" is smaller than prevous models 
(though still an impressive brick in a PFD pocket or on shoulder strap, 
6*2.5*1.25"). 
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Received on Mon Jan 05 2009 - 22:41:24 PST

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