Packing for an streamside emergency ANDREW MATHER
I willing to wager a bet that most of us don’t think about the hazards of setting out for a day on the river or dam. Most will check that they have a hat and or buff and possible some sunscreen…but that’s where it often ends.
this route will of course depend on your personal risk levels and factors such as age, medical conditions and extent of support will play a part in this decision. If you enjoy solo fishing into the mountains for days you might also fit into this category regardless of age!
So what should you take. Well that depends on how long you are going to be away. A day trip lends itself to a smaller compact medical kit. If you are overnighting or going for a longer multi-night trip then one needs to cover more options.
The two options then are the Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) and a satellite phone. All PLB’s require you to register the device. Some PLB’s require a subscription. There are now several on the market and really the choice depends on what you are prepared to pay. For a great review on current PLB see here (https://www.outsidepursuits.com/bestpersonal-locator-beacon/amp/)
Communication Before I get into the nitty gritty of what to pack perhaps the most important piece of kit is your cellphone. Make sure its fully charged before you set out. Cell coverage is sometimes limited but as I have come to find out there is often cell coverage if one moves to higher ground. Before one goes its worth finding out about cell coverage.
The next level is a satellite phone. Some satellite phones cannot transmit an SOS so you would need to call. Remember, a communication device is only as good as the coverage and reliability of the network behind it. See a review of 2019 satellite phones here. (https://www.bluecosmo.com/satellitephones)
If there is no cell coverage in the area then one needs to go the satellite route. This is obviously more expensive. The need to go www.saflyfishingmag.co.za
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