{"id":11884,"date":"2020-12-11T12:13:16","date_gmt":"2020-12-11T17:13:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sail.ca\/blog\/finding-right-satellite-messaging-device-safe-outdoor-experience\/"},"modified":"2022-10-24T10:57:29","modified_gmt":"2022-10-24T15:57:29","slug":"finding-right-satellite-messaging-device-safe-outdoor-experience","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sail.ca\/blog\/finding-right-satellite-messaging-device-safe-outdoor-experience\/","title":{"rendered":"Finding the Right Satellite Messaging Device for a Safer Outdoor Experience"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":4838,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[65,257],"tags":[869,1210],"class_list":["post-11884","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-outdoor-activities","category-orienteering","tag-spot-en","tag-satellite-messaging-device"],"acf":{"post_flexible_content":[{"acf_fc_layout":"text_content","content_anchor":false,"anchor_link_text":"","text_content":"Ready to grab your snowshoes and head out on a snowy path or steep mountainside? You\u2019ve gathered your necessities: a headlamp, healthy snacks, gloves, extra socks, a water bottle, and other essential gear. But, have you thought about bringing along a satellite communication device? This extremely practical tool will literally be life-changing in terms of safety and security, which is why is it so important to pick the right one. Fintan Robb, Senior Marketing Director of SPOT, explains the specifics to look for as well as the advantages of using this type of tool.<\/strong>\r\n\r\n\r\n

When can a satellite communication device come in handy?<\/h2>\r\nWe all know that something like a GPS device is a useful tool in the outdoors, especially to help orient yourself in nature<\/a>.\r\n\r\nBut, have you ever thought about bringing along a satellite messaging device during your outdoor escapades in areas where reliable cellular coverage isn\u2019t accessible? It\u2019s a great tip to have a communication device if you\u2019re heading out cross-country skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, hunting or fishing in a remote area, or even mountaineering!\r\n\r\nThough its primary function isn\u2019t to guide you, your satellite communication device offers a host of other helpful features all while including a trusty satellite messaging option. \u201cSeasoned outdoor enthusiasts often make the mistake of not bringing along much gear, as they are heading out in areas close to home,\u201d explains Fintan Robb. But that\u2019s the thing about the outdoors, even if you are well acquainted with most hiking paths or are heading out for the fiftieth time on the mountain just outside of town, something unexpected can always happen. For instance, you may get injured or suddenly need help. The same thing is true for outdoor rookies: you may have an excellent sense of direction, but it\u2019s easy to be turned around and disoriented quite quickly when you\u2019re out on the trails. And this is where the satellite communication device comes in.\r\n\r\nWhile a global positioning system (GPS) helps you to localize where you are, a satellite communication device allows you to transmit your GPS coordinates via satellite. Your position may be shared through satellite technology to your personal contacts, or to emergency rescue teams. This allows you to be reachable (SPOT X) and to share your position without having to access a cellular network in order to communicate \u2013 no matter where in the world you find yourself.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"Hiking<\/a>\r\n

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The advantages of using a satellite communication device<\/h2>\r\n

Peace of mind for you and your loved ones.<\/h3>\r\nWhile you\u2019re out doing your activities, you can\u2019t always predict the unpredictable. This type of device with integrated satellite messaging becomes indispensable \u201cif an accident or injury occurs, weather conditions change or the unexpected pops up. Should you need to let someone know your whereabouts when you are beyond reliable cellular coverage, a device such as the SPOT GEN4 will allow you to send a pre-programmed text message with your GPS coordinates to up to 10 contacts in your list that you can customize in advance. Or, set up\u00a0motion-activated tracking and share your whereabouts with friends and family. For extra safety, a simple push of the S.O.S. button in a life-threatening situation sends your GPS coordinates to local response teams via the 24\/7 GEOS International Emergency Response Coordination Center, alerting them to your situation,\u201d details Fintan.\r\n

2-way communication.<\/h3>\r\nCertain devices even allow your friends and family to contact you. This is the case with the SPOT X. \u201cSPOT X can send AND receive messages. Connect SPOT X to your smart phone via Bluetooth wireless technology through the SPOT X app to access your contacts and communicate easily with family, friends, or directly with Search & Rescue services in a life-threatening situation\u201d, shares Fintan.\r\n

Tracking your journey.<\/h3>\r\nUsing a messaging device isn\u2019t only a matter of safety and security. It also allows for tracking your expedition at regular intervals. Those close to you will appreciate this feature, as they\u2019ll be happy to be aware of how your journey is unfolding. For example, through satellite technology, the SPOT X and SPOT GEN4 devices allow you to track your progress at every 2.5, 5, 10, 30, or 60 minutes thanks to cloud mapping, so you can save and share your position along the way.\r\n

Protecting your valuables.<\/h3>\r\nYou like to head out on your snowmobile or ATV, but need to leave your main vehicle at the cottage? Certain messaging devices are specially designed to offer surveillance for your valuables during your absence. \u201cThe SPOT Trace, a satellite theft alert and tracking device will alert you to the object\u2019s daily location, or alert you when it is on the move. You\u2019ll be able to notify authorities in the event that unauthorized movement is identified. You can follow the action on your phone or on your computer, depending where you find yourself,\u201d explains Fintan.\r\n\r\n\r\n

Specifics to consider before selecting a satellite messaging device<\/h2>\r\nYou\u2019re ready to make your selection and acquire a tool that will be your best new ally in all your outdoor adventures? Here are some things to consider so as to make an informed choice.\r\n