Anyone use EPIRB's or PLB's when hiking?

[tgipson]

I will be doing some extended hiking in the southwest USA and the issue of EPIRB's (I know these are for marine use mostly altho there are some small enough to consider taking hiking) or PLB (personal locator beacons) came up. Does anyone use PLB's and if so is there a brand or type recommended?
I don't want to start a safety-while-in-the-outdoors thread, but just polling for information about this rescue technology.
Thanks,
Terry

[tokengirl]

I use the SPOT Satellite Messenger.

http://www.findmespot.com/en/

[tgipson]

I use the SPOT Satellite Messenger.

http://www.findmespot.com/en/

That seems like a good option, but heard some disparaging comments on some other reviews. The ability to send a cryptic message to others seems an advantage. How long have you used it?

[tokengirl]

I've had it about a year.

I don't know anything about these "cryptic messages"

When you set it up, you choose a set of e-mail addresses that you want the notifications sent to, and the text you want sent when you push the corresponding button on the device.  There are three kinds of messages you can send:

1.  Everything's ok, here's the GPS coordinates of where I was when I sent this notification.

2.  I need some help, come get me, here's the coordinates of where I'm at.

3.  My hair is on fire, here's my coordinates. (appropriate law enforcement/rescue agencies are also notified and dispatched when you press this button)

[ckimmerle]

Just be aware that you may be responsible for any rescue costs, especially if the emergency is more perceived than real. Seems that a lot of people use the beacon when they're tired, frustrated or want to end a trip early, causing major headaches and dangerous situations for rescue workers. I work with a guy who has been on two false rescues, one involving a group participant wanting to go home early, and the other a pair of canoeists who were wet and cold. Discomfort, yes, but hardly an emergency.

Oh yeah, forgot this one. A hiking party hit the panic button when the saw a bear.

[tokengirl]

Just be aware that you may be responsible for any rescue costs, especially if the emergency is more perceived than real. Seems that a lot of people use the beacon when they're tired, frustrated or want to end a trip early, causing major headaches and dangerous situations for rescue workers. I work with a guy who has been on two false rescues, one involving a group participant wanting to go home early, and the other a pair of canoeists who were wet and cold. Discomfort, yes, but hardly an emergency.

Oh yeah, forgot this one. A hiking party hit the panic button when the saw a bear.

True, good judgement is required when using such devices.  They also offer an insurance plan to cover these costs should the need arise.