Emergency beacon - will it help?

EPIRBs and PLBs are emergency beacons designed to alert the emergency authorities of your emergency and help them to find you for your rescue. I've heard of them being used by a driver with a flat tire, but what if you have a real reason to use one?

Don't fall into the trap of thinking that pressing that button will magically make a rescue helicopter arrive immediately!

I've just bought a new GME MT410G PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) one for my upcoming wilderness trek through the Western Arthurs in Tasmania. Here's what you need to know:

• They are to be used only when there's a threat of grave and imminent danger. Is it life threatening or very serious?
• They are to be used after all other forms of communication fail. So before pressing the button first try your phone, walking out, or contacting a farmer. These methods of communication will result in a faster rescue. I've heard of a group of dirtbikers that carry a PLB in a location where it would always be quicker to send 1 or 2 bikes back to their cars or a local farm to communicate better with authorities.
• Don't use the old analogue 121.5Mhz ones as that system is about the end (end of Feb 08)
• Register your 406 digital beacon. Firstly this will give the emergency service key information (because you've left your itinerary with a contact person). Secondly it results in a lot less false call outs as they'll try and call you first
• Don't think that once activated you'll get immediate help. You could experience significant delays in rescue
• Get one with onboard GPS. This could save half a day in search in some terrain.
• Use your brain to stay safe in the first place. While accidents and the unknown do happen plan accordingly and only do what your group is experienced enough to attempt
• Don't think that 'she'll be right' in all circumstances because you can just press a button. Use your head and plan to get yourself out even if it all goes pear shaped
• Test your PLB batteries before every trip and at regular intervals

A great resource is from the Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue Squad and Australian Maritime Safety Authority and here on 406 beacons where you can also register your PLB.