I understand that if it is impossible to mount a rescue that a beacon doesn't change that fact.

But the statement seems odd considering that when the weather breaks, they still need to know where they are, and it seems a PLB would be extremely helpful toward that end.

Regarding PLB batteries going dead -- I don't think it matters, esp. if it has GPS capability. Basically the message would have gotten through and they'd have the location unless they had moved from that location.

That said, could a white-out block the PLB signal? How about GPS?

-john