Originally Posted By: hikermor
You have a different mindset if you are planning for a situation where rescue is not possible or will be long and intricate (say, for instance, if you have a problem deep within a cave). My attitude still has traces of my old mindset, and i just haven't gotten around to purchasing a PLB or similar device, preferring to upgrade my current gear. Talk about a dinosaur.....
I try to maintain that mindset, even with the new gadgetry. It is always good to self rescue if possible.

The newer devices such as InReach do have some applications besides calling for rescue. For example, on remote fly in trips in Alaska it is now possible to alert your air taxi that you will be late for a scheduled pick up. In some cases this will prevent launching an unneccessary SAR.

We have also used these devices on SAR missions, to communicate with field teams in areas which can't be reached by radio or cell phone.
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