Big Power, Tiny Package
While an EPIRB is registered to the vessel, a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is registered to you. If you go overboard, the boat's EPIRB isn't going to help you. The Ocean Signal RescueME PLB1 is so compact that there is zero excuse not to wear it.
Unobtrusive Safety
The beauty of the PLB1 is its size. It's smaller than a deck of cards and weighs next to nothing. You can strap it to your inflatable PFD or stick it in foul weather gear, and you'll forget it's there. Despite its size, it packs a 7-year battery life and transmits on both the 406 MHz satellite frequency and the 121.5 MHz homing frequency, plus it has a high-intensity strobe.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Incredibly small and lightweight, 7-year battery, easy to deploy one-handed, includes a flotation pouch.
- Cons: The antenna deployment requires you to pull a ribbon, which could be tricky with cold, numb fingers. It must be manually activated.
The Verdict
If you boat alone, sail at night, or fish offshore, the PLB1 is mandatory personal gear. It is the most compact insurance policy against disaster you can buy.