Search and Rescue

What do you need?

You need PLB - personal locator device with Search and Rescue plan that cover Paragliding. GEOS SAR-HR for Garmin devices and Global Overwatch & Rescue™ Planare the only memberships in the world that provide this cover. .(NOTE: GEOS SUPPORT FOR SPOT DEVICES ENDS 1 SEPT 2021) Spot available in India on Amazon

#Spot or inreach?

Spot (No longer works in India)

Pros

• Lower device cost
• 5 min tracking included in basic plan
• Uses AAA batteries so you can carry spare

Cons

• No 2 way messaging on gen 2/3/4 device
• Coverage not so good, good for North India, not great for Panchgani, but works.(currently does not work in India due to Ukraine war)
• Messages take upto 20min to go, so keep the device pointed to open sky for at least that much time. Do not assume the message has gone, so in case of needing help leave the device on.

Inreach Mini

Pros

• 2 way messaging
• good overall coverage

Cons

• expensive, both device and plans. For Recreational plan US $300 and SAR-HR US $300 per year.
• Recreation plan only do 10 min tracking interval
• Unsure legal status of two way satellite communication devices
• Indian credit cards does not work for payments.

I got a device, what next?

1. Activate the device, add primary contact as local person or family or friend who will monitor your tracker and can be on the ground where SAR is needed. They will correspond with GEOS and multiple government and private agencies to get you rescued, so capabilities and willingness has to be there. Being primary contact is a huge responsibility(most likely high stress and fulltime) you are giving to someone, please check with the person beforehand if they want that kind of responsibility on your behalf, it should either be your very close friend or family member.
2. Get the good basic plan from Spot or Inreach(Recreation 10min tracking or expedition 2 min tracking)
3. Do not buy GEOS search and rescue plans from spot or inreach website as it is useless for our sport.
4. Get SAR-HR membership from HERE instead. Spot devices need Global Overwatch & Rescue™ Plan
5. Once the device is activated, enable Map sharing from your device portal and setup your device on flyxc.app to show live on the map with all other pilots. Spot/inreach can also be associated with your livetrack24 account.
6. Add your 3 pre-programmed messages e.g.

• Just checking in, all is OK, myname's device (normal checkin message)
• Landed out, will make it home on my own, myname's device (if you land out or on bivi)
• HELP! cannot make it home on my own, may have minor injury, meet me at my location(if you need help but do not want to trigger SOS and massive SAR operation)
• Create a shared folder with your insurance, contacts, tracking link etc and share with your contacts.

Cost?

One time device cost $150-$400, recurring annual $300-$350. Inreach Recreation plan which is minimum required plan that provide live tracking, annual plan costs US $330. SAR-HR insurance is US $300.

See this for everything about Paragliding in India.