The SPOT satellite messenger provides a unique set of satellite communication options combined with GPS location capability to permit sending of "I'm okay," tracking, and help messages when you are out of cell phone range. SPOT's Web and e-mail interface provide users with a range of options for setting up communications with pre-arranged contacts. SPOT is a relatively new product, but has already been credited with saving lives in the backcountry.
If your work or play takes you into the backcountry and out of cell phone range at any time of the year, you've probably thought about emergency communication. If you spend extended time in extreme and remote locations, you may have even considered options such as a satellite phone, an emergency position-indicating radio beacon (maritime EPIRB); or personal locator beacon (PLB).
Satellite phones are costly, and emergency beacons such as EPIRBs or PLBs are "all or nothing" devices that bring a full emergency response. SPOT, reviewed here is designed to give you another, more versatile choice, by providing more communication and response options at a reasonable cost.
Photo of SPOT Satellite Messenger © SPOT
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