Distress Alerting

Distress alerting means sending an emergency signal when you need help and can't get it on your own. In Canada, this is a key part of search and rescue (SAR) operations.

If you're heading into remote areas, carrying a device like a 406-MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), satellite messenger, or even a cell phone (where coverage exists) can help alert SAR teams quickly. The sooner help is notified, the better your chances of being found and rescued.

Choose a device that works for your activity and location, and make sure you know how to use it before you go.

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406-megahertz beacons

A 406-megahertz (MHz) emergency beacon sends a distress signal via a dedicated international satellite system (COSPAS-SARSAT) directly to search and rescue (SAR) authorities wherever you are.

All you need to know about 406-MHz beacons

Cellular phones

In an emergency, cellular (cell) and satellite phones help with rapid, two-way communication with rescuers. If you still have cell service, some phones allow you to send text messages even when you can't call.

Some newer cellphones can also use satellites so you can contact emergency services, and sometimes share your location, even when you're out of cell and Wi-Fi range, although reception can be a problem.

The 911 service is not available on all satellite phones and may not be available on certain cellular and/or landline phones within certain regions of Canada so the direct dial number for rescue authorities might be needed. Know what your device can and cannot do before setting out.

9-1-1 Services for Traditional Wireline, VoIP and Wireless Phone Services | CRTC

Satellite phones

Satellite phones are usually more rugged than cellular phones but to use them, you need to be outside, or somewhere with a clear view of the sky.

As with cellular phones, satellite phone batteries are affected by temperature changes. Keep your phone and extra battery packs warm and dry in a watertight container under layers of outer clothing to reduce the impact of temperature and humidity. For longer trips, bring a charged battery pack and a solar charger.

Alternative satellite-enabled notification technologies

Commercial satellite-based technologies, including Satellite Emergency Notification Devices (SEND), are mostly for locating and/or monitoring the status of people, vessels, aircraft, or vehicles. Also, they can send a signal in an emergency, using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), such as Global Positioning System (GPS).

Once you purchase a device, there is usually a subscription fee to pay. In an emergency, the commercial service provider contacts search and rescue authorities on your behalf.

Avalanche transceivers

Avalanche transceivers are critical safety devices. They are worn close to the body and transmit a homing signal to locate someone who is buried after an avalanche. They cannot be detected by satellites, or overflying aircraft. They do not make a sound that can heard by others.

Be aware that magnets on jackets, cellphones and other metallic and/or electronic objects can interfere with a transceiver's signal. Keeping metallic and/or electronic objects away from the transceiver is recommended.

Avalanche Canada - Essential Gear

Family and general mobile radio services

Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) portable radios are an easy and effective means of short-range communication between members of the same group. However, emergency services do not monitor them everywhere and they should not be used for emergency communications.

Maritime survivor locator devices

Maritime Survivor Locator Devices (MSLDs) are short-range transmitters used on ships or offshore oil and gas platforms. They are compact devices worn on a life jacket or flotation suit and may be manually, or water activated. They are intended for short-range to locate a person who has fallen into the water. These "man overboard" devices are useful during rescue operations in heavy seas or darkness. They are not designed or meant to be a primary distress alerting device.

Plan ahead

Create a trip plan – AdventureSmart

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