Garmin inReach SOS Functionality: Pricing and Utilization Guide

Garmin inReach SOS Functionality: Pricing and Utilization Guide

When venturing into the great outdoors, having a reliable emergency response system can be a matter of life and death. One such device is the Garmin inReach, a satellite communicator designed to provide assistance in critical situations. Here's a breakdown of the typical process when activating the SOS feature on a Garmin inReach device.

Firstly, it's essential to note that the inReach's satellite subscription must be activated before setting off on your journey, as it cannot be started from the device once off the grid.

In an emergency, pressing the SOS button on the Garmin inReach sends a signal to the Garmin Response team, who then liaise with the Garmin IERCC (International Emergency Response Coordination Center). This centre, staffed 24/7 by trained personnel, is ready to coordinate emergency assistance.

The SOS message is interactive, allowing for a dialogue between the user and the Garmin IERCC. This enables the user to provide additional details about their situation and receive instructions or reassurances while help is en route.

Crucially, the device automatically shares the user's GPS location with the emergency responders, ensuring they can pinpoint the user's position, even if verbal communication is impossible. During non-emergency situations, the user can share their location with loved ones through the device’s MapShare™ feature. However, during an SOS, the critical location data is prioritised for rescue coordination.

All SOS communications use the Iridium satellite network, ensuring global coverage—even in remote areas without cellphone service. The Garmin IERCC then evaluates the situation and coordinates with appropriate local emergency services (such as search and rescue, medical, or law enforcement) to provide timely assistance based on the user's location and needs.

In summary, activating the SOS on a Garmin inReach device sends an interactive distress signal with the user's GPS coordinates to a professional emergency coordination centre, which then manages the rescue through global satellite communication. This system is designed to provide reliable and responsive emergency support wherever you are.

It's also worth noting that nearly half of all inReach SOS events are for someone other than the device owner, allowing for third-party SOS activation. In such cases, the Garmin Response team can communicate with the user via the Garmin inReach, providing advice and assistance.

However, it's essential to remember that negligence can result in the user being billed for the rescue in some states. Some states offer protection from being billed for rescues if the user registers, such as buying a Hike Safe Card in New Hampshire. It's recommended to check your insurance coverage before heading out, and if worried about costs, getting rescue coverage is a smart investment.

Lastly, while the Garmin inReach SOS feature is designed for use in emergency situations, such as medical emergencies, being lost, out of water, or cut off by natural disasters, donating to a local SAR team is a way to give back to those who help others.

[1] Garmin International Inc., (2022). Garmin inReach Explorer+. [online] Available at: https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/products/inreach-explorer-plus/PRD/P-310910

[2] Garmin International Inc., (2022). Garmin inReach Mini. [online] Available at: https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/products/inreach-mini/PRD/P-310920

[3] Garmin International Inc., (2022). Garmin inReach SE+. [online] Available at: https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/products/inreach-se/PRD/P-310930

1. When embarking on a hiking trip within national parks, ensuring your Garmin inReach device is equipped with an active satellite subscription is crucial, as it allows the SOS feature to function off the grid.
2. While trekking through trails in the mountains, a Garmin inReach gadget could serve as a reliable emergency response system, sending a distress signal with your GPS location to the Garmin IERCC, even in remote areas without cellphone service.
3. As you delve deeper into nature, having technological tools like trailhead maps and gadgets such as the Garmin inReach on your gear could be highly beneficial, offering features like MapShare™ for sharing your location with loved ones during non-emergency situations.
4. In an emergency on a hiking trail, activating the SOS feature on your Garmin inReach device can initiate communication with the Garmin Response team and the Garmin IERCC, enabling a dialogue for providing additional details and timely assistance from local emergency services.
5. In addition to utilizing gadgets like the Garmin inReach for outdoor safety, supporting local Search and Rescue (SAR) teams through donations is a great way to express gratitude for their services in national parks and other natural settings.

Read also: