406 MHz beacons are not ignored. How quick rescue arrives depends upon where you are. If you are in an area with minimal SAR resources, it doesn't matter how you contact them, rescue will take longer. If it is a U.S. registered beacon, U.S. SAR resources may be dispatched if available in the area with minimal or no SAR resources of their own. Just depends. A 406 beacon is the most reliable means of alerting, regardless of where you are.