Driven a substantial distance of 1400 miles to retrieve prized Personal Locator Beacon
In the world of maritime emergencies, the FastFind Return Link Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) has become an indispensable safety device for one adventurous individual. Carried everywhere, this compact device can prove to be a useful backup in grave and imminent danger, such as boat fires or the need to abandon ship.
The FastFind Return Link PLB, a newer returnlink version, is a critical piece of equipment that can save lives. To activate it, the topcap needs to be snapped off, revealing the activation button and uncovering the aerial. Once activated, the beacon emits a distress signal, which is crucial in emergency situations.
The device comes with a neoprene pouch and a lanyard attachment, making it easy to carry. The author prefers to keep a personal locator beacon on their belt and an AIS unit inside their lifejacket, ensuring they are always prepared. However, the FastFind Return Link PLB is not designed to float, which is an important consideration for those venturing out on the water.
Despite this, the beacon's battery life is rated for 24 hours, providing ample time for rescue services to locate the distressed individual. The device also features a blue light confirmation for successful signal transmission, offering peace of mind.
Interestingly, the author had to fly 1400 miles to get the FastFind Return Link PLB, highlighting its importance in their safety measures. Regrettably, the author's FastFind Return Link PLB was accidentally left behind on their boat in the Azores, underscoring the need for constant vigilance.
In the upcoming Yachting Monthly Triangle race, the FastFind Return Link PLB will once again be a vital part of the author's safety equipment. It is more likely to be needed when not in a Man Overboard (MOB) situation, emphasising the importance of being prepared for all eventualities.
Contrary to some misconceptions, the FastFind Return Link PLB, like most personal locator beacons sold online, is expected to be a fully functional device. It is designed to send distress signals, and it undergoes rigorous testing and certification to ensure it functions correctly. There is no evidence to suggest that most personal locator beacons sold online are dummy units without working internal transmitters.
However, it is worth noting that virtually all of the beacons you see online for photographic purposes are dummy units. This is to prevent the accidental activation of the beacon and to avoid draining the battery.
In conclusion, the FastFind Return Link Personal Locator Beacon is a reliable and essential safety device for those who venture out on the water. With its compact design, long battery life, and reliable distress signal transmission, it offers peace of mind and could potentially save lives in emergency situations.
The FastFind Return Link PLB, with its capability of sending distress signals, is a valued gadget in the realm of technology that enhances safety for maritime enthusiasts. Carried alongside other safety equipment like AIS units, it serves as an indispensable technology that could be a game-changer in emergencies, be it boat fires or the need to abandon ship.
