Well at least it got some discusson of sorts going, but I fear you (generally)have not visited http://www.equineramblersuk.co.uk/pe...or-beacons.php for more information to educate yourselves further.

There is no shame in being ignorant about it or learnng more. There are a lot out there that have no knowledge of PLB's. This campaign and petition is for ALL that go in remote areas, not just horse riders so don't waste your time digging comments at equestrians. There is a sector of equestrians who ride long distance in remote unpopulated areas too...some Land's End to John O'groats or coast to coast. Have a look at the Trail Stories on the site and the Gallery.

The PLB is about the size of a mobile phone which you can put in your bumbag or rucksack and just forget about it until you REALLY need it (hopefuly you won't). It is to be used as a last resort when your shouting for help, whistle blowing and mobile phone reception is down etc. It's very light too. The cost is not prohibtive either at about £300, but that's your choice (if the law is changed) if you choose the expenditure. If you are with someone then that person can stay with you once the unit is activated rather than leave to find the nearest land based phone. BT are taking these out gradually.

The signal goes to RAF Kinloss who check the registered information (and the GPS signal location that is received) before alerting the SAR's. If the unit has been activated accidentaly at home they will ring the owner to let them know. There's also an Elected Point of Contact they can apply to for more info. Once they have satisfied themselves they will raise the SAR's. The GPS is accurate to 125 mtrs which will save the SAR's all lot of time and allow for a more prompt rescue, a brillaint advantage on what is available now.

They are not a tracking device as some of you seem to think they are. The GPS PLB is a transmitting signal only when activated, requiring OFCOM registration. Tracking devices require a monthy subscription and quite a few need mobile phone SIM cards which PLB's do not.

All that is required now is that the Database at RAF Kinloss is expanded to cope with in-land use and the law changed. SAR's have knowledge and equipment already in place.