To be clear: I understand the device transmits the help message back by satellite and not by using phone networks?
This then is the advantage of this product over carrying a mobile phone and a GPS, because you are dependent on the phone being in network to send a help message. (unless you have a satellite mobile!)
However, how much stuff do people want to carry? GPS and mobile is fairly standard stuff anyway and then this SPOT device too?
Certainly interesting though.
I think Breitling have long since made a pilot watch for about £3000 which has a single use emergency beacon. Apparently you sign a contract on purchase and get into trouble if you activate the beacon in a non-emergency (not that many people could afford to at 3 grand a pop!)
Your review doesn't state if this device is use-once-only or what safeguards are in place to stop idiots setting the help alert off "for a laff".
So is it a genuine good thing or just another opportunity for bimblers who can't be arsed to walk back from Hole in the Wall in a light fog to hassle Patterdale Mountain Rescue?
Posted: 14/05/2008 at 11:34
