Thinking that it won't happen to you is all too common for those heading into the great outdoors or onto the water, sometimes with unfortunate consequences.
The last resort way of summoning help in the event of a catastrophe, an emergency locator beacon will offer you and your family great peace of mind.
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is used to alert search and rescue services in the event of an emergency. They do this by transmitting a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency. This message is relayed via satellite and earth station to the nearest rescue co-ordination centre.
According to the Water Safety New Zealand Drowning Prevention Report, in 2016 there were 41 boating-related drownings in New Zealand. Some could have been prevented if an emergency locator beacon had been used.
With 25 years commercial fishing under his belt, Marine & Motorhomes manager Garry Hornby is in a unique position to talk about safety in the outdoors.
``There are still too many people taking risks,'' he says. ``I wouldn't go anywhere without one.''
Marine & Motorhomes offer emergency locator beacons from $329, which have a battery life of 10 years. They also have units for rent.
To be safe this summer, talk to Garry. Marine & Motorhomes are open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm, and Saturday 10am to 4pm at 22 Bridgman St, Kensington, Dunedin. Phone (03) 477-5313, or visit www.marinemotorhome.co.nz
