I wonder what type of instructions they receiced when the rented the unit. Not that it matters but I would anticipate one outcome renters should be warned is to use only in an true emergeny or expect to get charges for the cost of wasting everyone's time.

I worry that this type of story will reoccur enough that evenatually all SAR efforts become billableand that folks in true need but limited resources will refrain from activating SPOT or PLBs for fear of the possible charges.

If so, it would be a cruel irony as the low cost of rescue electronics that makes it affodable could result in higher incured costs for rescue that makes it too expensive for the average recreation camper/hiker.