Thread: SPOT Messages?
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Old May 14th 08, 10:19 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
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Default SPOT Messages?

On May 14, 1:22*pm, chris wrote:
On May 14, 1:08*pm, wrote:

When configuring a new SPOT there are three areas in which you can
include custom messages. The OK message is easy, "ABC is still flying
and OK", the Help message is easy as well, which might be, "ABC has
landed out at the coordinates provided and is OK. My cell number is
xxx xxx xxxx." The 911 message is the sticker. Any ideas on what the
cavalry will need in this message? Something dire like, "This is a
life threatening emergency. Glider (N number) has crashed and is in
need of immediate help at the GPS coordinates provided." And ideas on
this?


for me ok=ok * i make no mention of flying or not, because i may wish
to send a ok message after I've landed somewhere. *I have the tracking
feature also so i have no intention of sending ok messages while
flying, that is too distracting.

Help = landed out send trailer and retrieve crew

under 911 my message reads:

"My primary [but not only] use of the Spot locator is for flying
sailplanes/gliders. *Glider model X *Nxxxx * race # X.
My glider is also equipped with an ELT [Emergency Locator
Transmitter]. *If triggered it will beep on 121.500 Mhz. *This can
also be heard on old style manual tune AM radios at 1215 AM.

You may also try to reach me on aviation radio frequencies: 123.300,
123.500, 121.500 Mhz.

Cell 404-XXX-XXXX. My verizon phone is equipped with GPS Locate that
can be activated/located by emergency services if required.

I may also use this device for biking, hiking or other uses."

I should probably take out the hiking reference and just put that
under a different profile, just have not had time to set that up.
Chris


We@Post Mills Soaring Club, Post Mills, VT, have concluded that:

OK = "I have landed here. Come get me when the retrieve crew is
ready to. No rush." (The coordinates come with the notification sent
to the designees.)

HELP = "I have landed. I am OK, but I need non-emergency assistance
ASAP!" i.e., I don't wait for the day's flying activities at the
home field to end but send my retrieve folks now because there are
issues that are best solved while there may still be daylight with
enough hands, etc.).

911 = Just that. I am well enough tp press ths SPOT button, I'm
callng for EMERGENCY assistance at this location.

If I can't depress the 911 button, in all likelihood the aircraft's
ELT will already be activated...

And, Tracking = optional for friends, family and interested bystanders
granted access to one's SPOT account who want the thrill of knowing
where the winning pilot is on course.


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