If the PLB is equipped with a transceiver capable of voice communcation, the point is moot. If you are able to raise, and speak to someone, you'll get alot of information and can determine somewhat accurately the nature of the assistance required. If not, you can assume that the people are in dire straits and need everything you got. This should be sufficient for determining the course of action of search and rescue personnel. There is no way to remotely tell anyone is really dead. <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />