Didn't want to hijack DJ2's thread on PLB Education, and debated whether or not to put this in the Gadgets forum, but think this is the place for it.

"Tired from a hike? Rescuers fear Yuppie 911"
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33470581/ns/us_news-life/

And the associated poll (with an overwhelming answer)
http://www.newsvine.com/_question/2009/1...ency-situations


I guess I never realized how popular these had become now that they have come down so low in price; but it makes sense to me that more people would have them when considering their price and the fact that our society is ever more dependent on technology.

Would you guys want a penalty or to pay restitution for those who active their PLB in non-emergency situations? And how do you draw the line between emergency or non-emergency situations? Or will there always be gray area? Should you have to sign some sort of paperwork/contact when purchasing one of these devices that states you will be responsible for costs incurred in non-emergency situations? Or attend a class to know how to use them?

I've never looked at getting one, but I think these should be tougher to get than just ordering one off the internet. Because then there are all those yahoos in the article with these, putting an even bigger strain on SAR.


I've never had one in my hand, so I don't know, but are they easy to activate? I always thought the button(s) were kinda like in climbing where you arrange the carabiners in an opposite and opposed fashion. So, while not difficult to do, to active the PLB requires conscious thought and decision. Can someone help me here?