The SPOT Satellite Messenger Plays Lassie, Calls for Help

Even if we live in the 21st century, it would seem that the number of people who get lost or stranded in the mountains or other remote areas is still pretty high. Moreover, even if cellular communications might seem the most obvious method of calling for help, the truth of the matter is that there are still quite a lot of areas around the world which are not covered by cellular networks and this is one of the reasons why the SPOT Inc. company has announced the introduction of the SPOT Satellite Messenger, a device that allows users to call for help independently of cellular coverage.

Thus, the SPOT device uses the GPS satellite system to determine a user's location and SPOT's own wireless network to transmit that location and the user's status. Moreover, it has a very simple control system, featuring just 4 buttons which allow the users to either Alert 9-1-1 (dispatches emergency responders to an exact location), Ask For Help (sends a request for help to friends and family), Check In (allows the chosen contacts to be notified that the user has not encountered any significant problems) and Track Progress (which sends and saves the user's location and allows said contacts to track his/her movements via Google Maps).

Since this is a portable emergency device, it has been designed to withstand quite a large variety of adverse conditions. Thus, the SPOT can float, is quite rugged, resists the action of water (waterproof) and also provides quite a high level of resilience to shocks.

"Now, with SPOT, you can send a message for help or tell family members, friends or the authorities exactly where to find you using GPS accuracy. For anyone who ever drives their truck or car, or works or plays anywhere regardless of cellular coverage, help is now only a push button away." said Darren Bassel, Director of Retail Marketing for SPOT Inc., while explaining the advantages provided by his company's product.

The SPOT Satellite Messenger will be available for the general public starting with November 1, 2007, for around 150 US dollars. Initially, the device will be available only with subscription (99 USD per year), but, later on, the manufacturer will also provide monthly and multi-year options.

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