Quote:
Originally Posted by Globetrotter78
Might I also recommend looking into a personal HAM radio (BaoFeng units on Amazon are well rated and inexpensive). They DO require you learn how to use them and get a "license" but in remote locations at dangerously low temps like yours they could be a critical last line of defense. Just my $0.02
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Being a licenced HAM, I don't disagree with what you said, but a much better tool for emergency use is a 2-way satellite communicator.
I use a Garmin inReach mini, it runs off the iridium satellite constellation which is badass in its own right. It's an amazing tool and substantially easier and less stressful to use than a HAM radio in a true emergency or as a general purpose safety device.
The main reason I own and maintain a SAT com device in addition to HAM radio for is:
Speed in a true emergency
Global coverage without needing to know radio repeater data in your area
SOS function is monitored by GEOS (its like a satellite 911 center)
My location is automatically sent on all messages and SOS
Family can keep track of me via a web portal
You can use it as a SAT modem for texting via my smartphone when no cell service is available.
I have paid insurance for search and rescue as part of the service
I can get paid insurance for medical transport
Its affordable (compared to a satellite phone)
Its reliable and great for non-HAMS