Plan A: Self-rescue
Plan B: Communication options for outside help

One-way Satellite Messenger
*Some connect to your phone to become two way, but don’t rely on that function.

• One way call – unable to communicate with rescuers
• Replaceable batteries
• Pre-set messages
• Global coverage usually strong
• Purchase + subscription
• Tracking functions

Two-way Satellite Messenger

• Two-way call though device slow, faster if connected to phone
• Rechargable, long life
• Pre-set messages + custom
• Global coverage usually strong
• Purchase + subscription
• Tracking & GPS functions

Satellite Phone

• Two way call, fast communication
• Rechargable but not in the field
• Concise message conversation as connection breaks frequently
• Global-terrain & weather sensitive
• Purchase + plan, expensive
• Extremely sensitive to your position. If you have connection, do not move!

Personal Locator Beacon

• One way call – unable to communicate with rescuers
• Multi-year, not replaceable or rechargeable
• No messaging – one hit wonder
• Global
• Purchase, expensive one time

Cellular Phone

• Two-way call in service, limited in SOS
• Rechargable, short life
• Unlimited messaging in service, limited in SOS
• Extremely unreliable coverage, SOS only available in some countries for new Apple phones only
• Most already own
• Fragile & used for many other functions, not recommended as sole emergency device

Radio

• Two way
• Rechargable but not in field
• Messaging can be very clear or broken
• Local coverage only, affected be terrain
• Purchase
• Can catch others in area for help
• Needs to be programmed for channels, need a license in some areas/channels

Smoke signals NOT (generally) recommended.

Before you go! Leave a trip plan with someone reliable.

• Where you are going
• Who is going
• What equipment you have
• Expected return date & time
• Who & when to contact if overdue