I have technicians working in isolated areas without cell phone service in Kansas, USA. I want the technicians to be able to request emergency (EMS) and non-emergency aid (e.g. need assistance with stranded vehicle) in these areas if needed. I've been looking into SPOT gen3 units (http://www.findmespot.com/en/index.php?cid=100) and would appreciate feedback from anyone who has used these for terrestrial fieldwork. I'd like to know how well these devices stands up to rough handling and weather conditions in the field, if it can send messages in varied weather conditions (e.g. cloudy days), any issues with the service plan required for the unit/customer service, and any comments on emergency or non-emergency personnel response to aid requests from these devices.
I'd also appreciate suggestions for alternative devices that can provide these services. The SPOT unit can provide "I'm OK" alerts to check-in with preset contacts and track movement - these features are preferred, but not required, for alternative devices. Molly M. Reichenborn Research Project Manager Wichita State University Department of Biological Sciences [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
