What do I need to be aware of if I'm considering purchasing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)?

Question

Obviously, I can't just buy it, push the button and expect a helicopter to show up.

Are there monthly or registration fees? Do I need to get a permit or register with someone? How does it all work? Does it get service everywhere (even internationally)? I'm not even sure what I don't know at this point.

Basically, if you were telling a friend how to purchase a PLB, what would you tell them?

Which country? I don't think they're allowed inland in the UK — Chris, Jan 31 '12 at 00:09
Ofcom have recently added an exemption which does now allow PLBs to be used in the UK. See http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/consultations/licence-exemption/statement/statement.pdf — Phil, Jan 31 '12 at 18:49

score 8 · Accepted Answer · edited Jan 31 '12 at 22:33

8

The Wikipedia article has a lot of detail: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distress_radiobeacon.

There's no fee. In the USA, the response comes from government agencies such as the Coast Guard.

It does need to be registered, but registration is free and easy online.

If you use it when there's not an emergency, you could be fined.

edited Jan 31 '12 at 22:33

Michael Pryor

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answered Jan 30 '12 at 23:38

Jay Bazuzi

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What do I need to be aware of if I'm considering purchasing a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)?

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