Garmin inReach SOS Functionality and Its Associated Costs
In today's world, adventure seekers often find themselves in remote locations, where help might not be immediately available. That's where the Garmin inReach comes in, a two-way communicator that can save lives in emergency situations.
The Garmin inReach, when activated, sends an SOS signal to Garmin Response, a 24/7 emergency coordination center. When an SOS is triggered, the Garmin Response team assesses the situation and may dispatch a rescue team, advise the user to stay put, or help them figure out the safest way out.
But when should you trigger the SOS button? Medical situations, being lost, out of water, not equipped to stay overnight, being cut off by a wildfire, flooding, or rockfall, and being in a worsening situation and not believing one can self-evacuate safely are all valid reasons. However, it's important to remember that unnecessary use of the SOS button can cause delays in responding to genuine emergencies.
While most backcountry rescues are free, you could be billed for medical transport or ground ambulance. To avoid such costs, consider getting rescue coverage like Garmin SAR Insurance or Overwatch & Rescue.
It's also worth noting that in some states, negligence can result in being billed for the rescue. Therefore, it's crucial to be well-prepared before embarking on your adventure.
In some cases, dialing 911 might get help faster than using the Garmin inReach, especially if you have cell service or "Emergency Calls Only" on your phone. However, the dispatcher might not be familiar with outdoor rescues, and coverage and dispatcher experience vary depending on location.
The Garmin inReach needs an active satellite subscription for SOS to work, and the subscription must be activated before heading out. After triggering SOS, the device sends location updates every 10 minutes to conserve battery.
Once the SOS is triggered, rescuers are coming to your GPS location. It's important to stay as calm as possible and respond promptly to messages from GEOS to help coordinate an efficient rescue. Provide clear, accurate information about your condition and surroundings, remain near the device and conserve its battery, and follow any instructions given by GEOS or rescuers.
In some cases, you may be asked to self-evacuate or move to a spot where a vehicle or aircraft can reach you. Simple steps to increase your chances of survival include emailing or texting a friend your trail or guide, knowing your route, hiking within your limits, checking the weather, bringing enough gear to spend the night, and charging your inReach.
Lastly, remember that most search and rescue operations are run by nonprofit organizations and staffed by volunteers. Donating to a local SAR team can help them stay operational.
In places like New Hampshire, buying a Hike Safe Card can protect you from being billed for a rescue. If you're worried about cost, consider these options. But above all, stay safe and enjoy your adventure!
- When in remote locations, the Garmin inReach device, a two-way communicator, can save lives in emergency situations by sending an SOS signal to the Garmint Response team.
- Medical situations, being lost, out of water, not equipped to stay overnight, being cut off by a wildfire, flooding, or rockfall, and being in a worsening situation and not believing one can self-evacuate safely are valid reasons to trigger the SOS button on the Garmin inReach.
- To avoid unnecessary costs, consider getting rescue coverage like Garmin SAR Insurance or Overwatch & Rescue for situations where most backcountry rescues might be free but could result in medical transport or ground ambulance charges.
- While dialing 911 might get help faster than using the Garmin inReach in some cases, it's crucial to remember that coverage and dispatcher experience vary depending on location, and a dispatcher might not be familiar with outdoor rescues.
- In some national parks, electronic devices like the Garmin inReach are essential for navigating trails and staying safe, alongside other necessary gear such as maps, hiking essentials, and gadgets like a headlamp or multi-tool.
