Emergency Communication

Charky · Dec 12, 2022

I now think I'm going with the Garmin inReach Messenger, this seems to check the most boxes for my intended use. It uses the Iridium satellite network, I can use a smartphone to send and receive texts more easily but if the phone isn't available I can still text with the device itself.

Back in the day, communicating like this may have included a mirror or smoky fire during the day, a flashlight at night, firing off three shots and other low tech ways so it's pretty cool to be talking about sending an SOS over a satellite network with the push of a button and sending/receiving texts over the same network.

With so many great options out there, and I'm sure more coming, I really encourage everyone to get an emergency communication device of some sort. It's a recovery tool for yourself!

BuilderJeff · Jan 28, 2025

This thread is a bit dated but I'll play. I have done HAM, GMRS, and Garmin InReach. Now, if I'm vehicle based I will fire up my Starlink! Trailside will still get the InReach treatment. Many years ago I triggered my Spot device after a mountain bike crash. After returning to my vehicle and unable to source aid nearby (no one home at the fire station!) I hit the highway. A state trooper tracked me down, concerned I was kidnapped. After seeing my bloody head he clued me into why I was stopped. Those satellite systems WORK!

mdax · Jan 29, 2025

I'm a general ham, love hf and have an ht.
When I'm out and about I use my starlink for comms, it's way fast and easy. I can call the wife, send her pics, jump into a work meeting...it's very nice.

When I'm hiking or biking from the rig I bring an inreach mini because if I'm gored by a moose or break my leg the car could be way too far.