A lot of trail runners are mapping nerds including myself. We track our runs using a GPS then upload our GPS tracks to Google Maps and embed in our weblogs. Now imagine if you could do this in real time. This could provide a safety advantage if something happened during your epic run someone could easily find you. Well it looks like there is a company that offers that solution now they are called Spot Messenger it looks like a pretty impressive product. Here is the companies promo:
With the SPOT Satellite Messenger, you and your loved ones have peace of mind knowing help is always within reach. SPOT is the only device of its kind, using the GPS satellite network to acquire its coordinates, and then sending its location – with a link to Google Maps – and a pre-programmed message via a commercial satellite network. And unlike Personal Locator Beacons, SPOT does more than just call for help. Tracking your progress, checking in with loved ones, and non-emergency assistance are also available, all at the push of a button. And because it uses 100% satellite technology, SPOT works around the world – even where cell phones don’t.
The product is seems reasonably priced at $169.99 (that does not include service fees of $99.99 dollars a year for basic service charges and $49.99/yr to do live tracking).
I know there are cheaper ways to do this but they take a lot of “technical” skills setting up a GPS gateway, purchasing a GPS tracking device, setting up your Google Map web page etc, which is a lot of work.
I think this will be a definite purchase for me before this summers “epics” it will make me feel safe/secure while I am out there on my own.
