Distress Signals: Pyrotechnics v PLB (Personal Location Beacon) 

Excellent. Thanks Ray. The clarity and reasoning is so useful. Very helpful to see full deployment of the day-night flare and its effect. As you're a top level sea kayaker and canoeist your choices carry real weight. 😁👍

Some years ago we had a "flares" night at a local boat club. Coastguard present and all emergency services told of exercises. We let off numerous flares and apparently only 2 calls were made to the coastguard from the public!

Another great production Ray, many thanks for even more information. Stay safe my friend, Nige. 👍👍☕☕

Excellent summary of an important subject. Thank you.

Great video Ray. Very informative. Useful for all who operate in remote areas.

Excellent review. I used to use the Spot Messenger v1 however recently upgraded to a Zoleo which I link with my Smart phone. One thing to consider with the Spot is to replace the batteries with fresh ones before a trip. For devices like the Zoleo or Garmin that recharge via usb cable carrying a small powerbank is often a good idea. Thanks for sharing!

Good video Ray. The only thing I'd add is that the antenna can become difficult to draw out after repeated wetting and drying in salt water, so frequent fresh water rinsing is good. I also give mine a spray of silicone from time to time. Finally, it's worth remembering that the EVDS signals are for nighttime only, so orange smoke is still required for daytime use.

Thanks Ray, great video. I made the same choices a few years ago. Ditched the pyrotechnics and switched to LED flare, PLB and VHF. As I paddle in coastal areas with good reception I’ve also started to regularly use the RYA SafeTrax app which HM Coastguard now recommends a replacement for their CG66 voluntary identification scheme. It works pretty well and let’s my wife know where I am during my paddle trips whilst also offering for an emergency call function and provides an automatic call to your emergency contact if you exceed your ETA. Just another tool in the toolbox.

Good stuff Ray. Thanks again for another valuable video.

Thanks Ray. Very good reasoning on all those items. Some things obsolesce with time, eh. Since I am in Canada, and I love flatwater canoeing and hiking, I use the SPOT Gen 2, it still works just fine, it's simple (no messaging) and it relays my daily positions to selected family and friends. They love to see where I am, and take comfort in knowing I am ok. SPOT has a good track record for rescues in North America, and works well, IMHO. I also carry a good lighting system for both night use and for emergency signaling, and a whistle. (On the side: I also believe in getting first aid training before you venture forth, all your party, they might need to tend to you.) I do not carry a phone to the wilderness, I would rather commune with nature, and if the world ends while I am away, it will still be done for when I return to the devastated, ruined civilization I left intact. ;-). PS. Yes, for the whimpy flatwater types like me, mine may be the best choices, but for all you hard core watercrafters, yours most likely reigns supreme. Cheers Ray. Marcel.

Fantastic

Very comprehensive review Ray, I think you've sold me on the PLB. I had been debating it for a while. Cost vs. Functionality. Pyrotechnics certainly have their place but the beacons are a whole different ball game.

Much appreciated and enjoyed..... always keeping an eye out for your videos. Thanks !

All new to me. Though Jason took the radio on Loch Ness.

Good content well presented- just need to find the money🤔

Thanks Ray, very useful. Any recommendations on the best supplier of a PLB?

Looking to buy a EPLB but would want to take it along on a trip to Africa. Are both of these supported globally and so far inland? Thanks