Another rescue?

[ILUVSWTAS]

Yes I know what your saying, but still I like the odds of 99-100 over 1-100.

And as was previously stated, a good mapping GPS will have most tracks on it,(trackback feature at worst) so you can navigate your way out of any conditions rather than going for the free chopper ride.

[Azza]

I'm kind of wary of become too dependent on GPS for navigation. Its helpful to sort out those occasional navigational challenges, but its also caused a few navigation issues by blindly following it. If you can't do it without a GPS, then I'd suggest you learn. (I know my nav skills are very rusty....)
People have been bushwalking in Tasmania for a long time. Prior to GPS, mobile phones, EPIRB'S etc. we managed the risk by good planning, experience, being properly prepared and equiped to deal with situations as best we could. Technology has evolved to the point where we have EPIRB'S etc that can get out of trouble 'free' when we get in over our heads.
I think this leads to people biting off more than they can chew because they've got the saftey blanket of a EPRIB. I think the question should be asked before heading out - would you still do it if you didn't have your GPS / EPIRB?

There will be medical emergencies etc, where we'd be thankful for a fast response (like that boulder than has my name on it...) But there are plenty of situations where being properly prepared would mitigate the risk where you can avoid or postpone resorting to the helicopter option. It shouldn't be the first option - unless things are really that bad..

[ILUVSWTAS]

I dont have an EPIRB, I have a PLB.....



I know what you mean Azz, but the technology is there, so why not use it!! Doesnt mean I dont think people shouldnt also know how to use and carry a map and compass.....

[Azza]

but the technology is there, so why not use it!!

I don't disagree. But like any technology it can fail.

I dont have an EPIRB, I have a PLB.....

As long as it works on 406MHz, don't care what you call it. because it'll probably be the one that saves my neck when that boulder catches up with me...

[ILUVSWTAS]

Lol... 410 I think it is!!

EPIRBS are what they call the ones on boats these days, smaller handheld ones are Personal Locator Beacons.... PLB...

[north-north-west]

EPIRB is what they've been calling the marine units for about as long as they've existed.

[ILUVSWTAS]

Yep, which is why they changed the non marine ones to PLB.... I think.

[Nuts]

..