The Foretrex 801 itself does not have a built-in SOS feature directly on the unit because it is primarily a wearable GPS navigator focused on tactical and outdoor navigation functions. However, the Foretrex 801 can be paired with a Garmin inReach satellite communicator device, which provides the SOS functionality via satellite connectivity. This means that the SOS feature works through the inReach device connected to the Foretrex 801.
Here is a detailed explanation of how the SOS feature works in an emergency when using the Foretrex 801 with a Garmin inReach satellite communicator:
1. Activation of SOS:
- The SOS feature is triggered manually by the user when they are in an emergency situation and need immediate assistance.
- On the inReach device, an SOS button can be pressed and held to initiate the emergency alert. This is a deliberate action designed to avoid accidental activation.
- Once activated, the device begins transmitting an SOS message through satellite communication to Garmin's 24/7 emergency response coordination center.
2. Emergency Message Transmission:
- The SOS signal sent includes the user's current GPS coordinates provided by the Foretrex 801 or the inReach device's own GPS.
- For the first 10 minutes, the inReach sends updated GPS locations every 60 seconds to provide rescuers with accurate and real-time positioning.
- After 10 minutes, to conserve battery, the location updates are sent every 10 minutes until the SOS is canceled or the rescue operation is complete.
3. Response Coordination:
- Garmin's emergency response team receives the SOS signal and immediately accesses the user's location.
- They assess the situation based on the information received and may attempt to communicate with the user directly via the two-way messaging functionality.
- The user can respond to convey the nature of the emergency, ask questions, and receive instructions or advice from the response team.
4. Local Emergency Responder Notification:
- The emergency coordination team contacts local rescue agencies relevant to the user's location and relays all necessary information, such as precise coordinates, user details, medical info if available, and emergency contacts.
- The response team also contacts the user's emergency contacts listed in their profile to provide additional information and coordination help.
5. Ongoing Communication and Tracking:
- The user receives continuous status updates on the device about the rescue progress.
- Messages sent by the user during the SOS event are relayed directly to the rescue services.
- The device tracks and transmits the user's location continuously to assist rescuers in locating the user efficiently.
6. SOS Cancellation and Aftermath:
- If the emergency is resolved or the user no longer needs help, they can cancel the SOS.
- Once canceled, the emergency coordination center loses the ability to track or send messages to the device.
- The user is then removed from any emergency maps or tracking views until the incident is officially closed.
7. Subscription Requirement:
- The SOS feature requires an active satellite subscription through Garmin's services.
- Users must activate their inReach device with a subscription plan before heading out, as the SOS functionality depends on satellite connectivity.
8. Use Cases for SOS Activation:
- Medical emergencies like severe injury, heatstroke, hypothermia, or serious health issues.
- Situations where users are lost, stranded without resources, or unable to self-evacuate.
- Natural threats such as wildfires, floods, or falling debris that create an immediate danger.
- Vehicle accidents or breakdowns in remote areas.
- Any situation where the user feels unsafe and requires professional rescue assistance urgently.
9. Advice and Considerations:
- It is recommended to activate SOS as soon as a situation appears dangerous or uncertain.
- Misuse or frivolous SOS activations are discouraged, as they divert resources and may have legal or financial consequences.
- The two-way communication helps clarify the emergency to responders, potentially avoiding unnecessary deployments.
- In areas where cell service is available, calling 911 may sometimes result in quicker assistance due to direct voice communication.
- The SOS feature on inReach linked with the Foretrex 801 provides vital safety for wilderness, tactical, or outdoor adventurers by ensuring help is reachable when traditional communication is impossible.