Questions tagged [communication]
Category for outdoor communication gear.
20
questions
2
votes
1
answer
744
views
How do I send a "test message" with a Garmin InReach Mini 2?
I have successfully done a device test on my Garmin InReach Mini 2, but my plan on Garmin Explore states I have sent 0 out of 5 test messages in my plan. How do I send one of those? I couldn't find ...
- 27.3k
4
votes
1
answer
1k
views
Do Garmin InReach plans include unlimited incoming messages?
I am considering getting a Garmin InReach device (a device allowing two-way satellite communication via text messages) and I am trying to decipher the hidden costs of the subscription that comes along....
- 653
12
votes
4
answers
2k
views
Garmin inReach vs. overcast sky
Garmin says about inReach that to have a two-way satellite communication "you need to have a clear view of the sky".
And what about cloud cover?.. Say it's winter and 100% overcast with angry ...
- 1,770
17
votes
3
answers
4k
views
How do you wave off a search and rescue helicopter?
We were out on a night hike. A helicopter showed up, by behavior it was search and rescue, looking not too far away from our group.
It might have simply been doing training, but if it was a real ...
- 2,334
6
votes
4
answers
1k
views
How best to hold/aim a Garmin InReach for satellite messaging?
On a recent camping trip, I was having great difficulty sending messages with a Garmin InReach. I was in a woods with a moderately thick canopy overhead, but next to a small river so I could step out ...
- 161
10
votes
2
answers
2k
views
Can you use an Iridium phone with a SIM but with no active plan to place an emergency call?
It seems that you can't use an Iridium handset to place an emergency call without a SIM card (which seems to be more a commercial than a technical issue).
What I'm wondering is whether an "expired" ...
- 201
29
votes
6
answers
7k
views
How do you aim a signal mirror?
Say you are in the middle of a desert where there is lots of sunshine, and you are trying to signal for help with a signal mirror.
Either in the distance there is a person, or there is an airplane ...
- 69.4k
6
votes
1
answer
787
views
Is there a safer way to use a flare in a wooded area?
This answer on another question says that there is a risk of causing a forest fire when using a flare.
Is there a recommended/safer way to use flares that lessens this risk, in the event that someone ...
- 163
20
votes
2
answers
7k
views
What is the risk of starting a forest or wildland fire with a flare gun?
When firing a flare gun in the air, what is the risk of accidentally starting a forest or wildland fire? Does the flare go out completely before it touches the ground?
- 30.4k
5
votes
4
answers
1k
views
Are there sound-based alternatives to whistle signals for group communication?
Whistles can be used to signal to group members, however the downside is that other people may think you are having an emergency.
Are there any other devices that would allow you to signal with noise ...
- 69.4k
11
votes
4
answers
8k
views
Are there standard whistle signals for communicating with separated party members?
Similar to the previous question that turned up when I searched on this topic: Is there a standard set of light signals for mountaineers?, but for sound?
Repeating sets of 3 blasts is standard for ...
- 113
10
votes
1
answer
2k
views
What would happen if I use a USA (GMRS/FRS) two-way radio in Europe?
This question is the opposite from this one: What would the consequences of using a US two-way radio (GMRS/FRS) in Europe? I know Europe has their own frequency range for two-way radios (PMR), but for ...
- 6,869
8
votes
2
answers
226
views
Are there standardized signals to communicate with aircraft?
Suppose one is in distress in the wilderness, and is being searched for by planes or helicopters because they thoughtfully told their friends where they were going and when they'd be back. Alternately,...
- 8,720
18
votes
4
answers
18k
views
What are the consequences of — illegally — using a 446 MHz PMR in the North American wilderness?
I've recently bought a pair of PMR446 walkie-talkies with some 5–10 km range, operating at 446 MHz. We've happily used them in Sareks Nationalpark in Sweden. Now I'm moving to Canada, where this ...
- 27.3k
5
votes
1
answer
2k
views
I am looking for a two way radio/device with constant contact
Hello, I am looking for a device to be in communications with another person while skiing without having to push a button. Exactly like a cell phone, but since phones don't work up where we ski ...
- 53