ACR TerraFix PLB

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When teaching survival classes, I commonly get questions about worst-case, "what if" scenarios. Many go something like: "What if you fell off a cliff where no one could see you, and you could not move?" My short answer would be: Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB). Specifi-cally, the ACR TerraFix PLB is designed with hunters in mind -- it is compact, simple to use, and built to withstand severe environmental conditions. When activated, the TerraFix sends out a distress signal to search and rescue (SAR) satellites and activates rescue efforts almost immediately -- between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on the features of the specific PLB.

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Additionally, using that signal, rescuers are able to come virtually straight to your location, saving precious time that can make the difference between life and death. Each PLB has a unique identifying number (UIN), and UIN registration with the National Oceanic and Atmos-pheric Administration (a government organization that monitors search and rescue satellites) is free. Your registration can give rescuers important personal information -- unique medical conditions and even a trip itinerary -- when they receive your distress signal. As of this writing, the TerraFix PLB has recorded 25 saves in 2006, and counting. Prices range from $549 to $649, depending on the model (954/981-3333, www.acrterra-fix.com).