Originally Posted by
Carbonfiberboy
Since noticing this thread, I've looked into it. My wife and I carry a PLB when we're backpacking. The rule with that device is that "If you push the button, a helicopter will come. If it's not a life threatening emergency, you're going to have a very large S&R bill." I've seen the helicopter come.
The other devices are just something I don't want to get involved with. If I ever needed to have anything like that, I'd be out of cell service, so that'd mean a satellite rig. That's just too much money and bother, plus the chance of false alarms. Living has risks no matter what. I just had a very good friend and riding buddy die in bed at 60 y.o, really strong guy in fabulous physical condition, had spent the day backcountry skiing. I've made it this far and think I'll just keep going.
I'm a road rider though. If I rode BC trails, I might have a different opinion - or maybe not. I think I'd just carry the PLB, figuring that if I needed help, it'd be because the bike was broken and I couldn't walk. That's life-threatening in the back country. If I crashed but didn't really need help, letting my wife know I had a problem might not be the best approach. If I could walk out, I could always come back for the bike later, no need for S&R.
It sounds like an ANGi device would also work for your needs. Mine came with my helmet but you can just purchase the device and carry it while you hike. There is a timer setting that if there is a false alarm, you can stop it from falsely notifying your contacts. There is a setting for out of range activity. Set a timer and if you are not back by that time you set, your contact will be notified to look for you at the last known GPS location. Assume you are rinding along the road, fall into a ditch and are knocked out. With the ANGi device, it will contact your contacts with your location and get you help. Can not press any button for help if you are knocked out so this device may also enhance what you already have. There is no charge for this service or features.