18th Aug 2025
When heading out on the water, safety should always be the top priority. While life jackets, flares, and VHF radios are common pieces of essential safety equipment, one item that’s often overlooked - but can make all the difference in an emergency is a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
In this blog post, we’ll explore what PLBs are, how they work, their key features, and why every sailor, kayaker, paddleboarder, or offshore adventurer should consider carrying one.
What is a Personal Locator Beacon?
A Personal Locator Beacon is a compact, handheld device that sends a distress signal in the event of an emergency. Once activated, it communicates your precise location to search and rescue services via satellite networks. Unlike mobile phones, which rely on signal coverage, PLBs use dedicated global satellite systems, meaning they can transmit from even the most remote areas of the world.
Think of a PLB as your personal “rescue button.” Whether you’re kayaking down a quiet river, sailing across the Channel, or hiking the coastline, a PLB ensures that if something goes wrong, help will know exactly where you are.
How Do PLBs Work?
PLBs operate on the 406 MHz frequency, a dedicated international search and rescue channel monitored by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. Here’s a breakdown of what happens when you activate one:
Activation - You press the emergency button on the device, usually under a protective cover to avoid accidental use.
Signal Transmission - The beacon sends out a 406 MHz signal, which includes a unique identifying code and, in most modern PLBs, your GPS coordinates.
Rescue Coordination - The signal is picked up by satellites and relayed to a local Mission Control Centre (MCC), which alerts the nearest rescue authorities.
Homeland 121.5 MHz Signal - Many PLBs also transmit a 121.5 MHz homing signal, allowing rescue teams to pinpoint your location once they are nearby.
The process is automatic, fast, and globally recognised - dramatically increasing your chances of a safe rescue.
Key Features of Personal Locator Beacons:
Modern PLBs are designed to be rugged, reliable, and easy to use in high-stress situations. Key features include:
- Compact & Lightweight - Small enough to fit in a pocket or clip onto a life jacket, meaning you can always keep it with you.
- Waterproof & Buoyant Models - Many are built to survive harsh marine conditions and some float for easy recovery if dropped overboard.
- GPS Capability - Integrated GPS provides accurate location data (usually within a few metres) to speed up rescues.
- Long Battery Life - PLBs typically last 24+ hours once activated and can remain in standby mode for years before battery replacement is required.
- Strobe Light / LED Indicator - Some units include built-in lights to increase visibility during night rescues.
- No Subscription Costs - Unlike some satellite messengers, PLBs operate on the free-to-use international rescue system once registered.
Why Carry a PLB?
Carrying a PLB could be the single most important decision you make when preparing for an adventure. Here’s why:
- Global Coverage - Unlike mobile phones, PLBs don’t rely on network coverage.
- Peace of Mind - Whether you’re offshore sailing or kayaking solo, you know you have a direct link to emergency services.
- Rapid Rescue - With GPS accuracy and satellite monitoring, rescuers can reach you faster.
- Compact Safety Net - Easy to carry at all times, even on short trips.
- Works Anywhere - From open ocean to inland waterways and even remote coastal hikes.
Who Should Carry a PLB?
PLBs are recommended for:
- Offshore sailors and cruisers
- Kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders
- Solo adventurers
- Coastal hikers and anglers
- Anyone exploring areas with poor mobile reception
In short, if you spend time on or near the water, a PLB is a small investment that could save your life.
Top Recommended PLBs:
- ACR ResQLink View RLS Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon
Why it's great: Comes with a digital display that shows real-time GPS coordinates and beacon status, plus the Return Link Service (RLS) - a feature that provides confirmation that your distress signal has been received (via a flashing light and on-screen message).
Key Features:
- GPS & Galileo GNSS, MEOSAR compatible.
- 406 MHz + 121.5 MHz homing signal.
- Built-in buoyancy, strobe & infrared lights.
- Long operational life: ~28 hours, 5-year battery life.
- Broad certifications and rugged build.
- ACR ResQLink 410 RLS Buoyant Personal Locator Beacon
Why it's great: Retains the RLS feature of its sibling model (confirming your distress signal was received) but in a more compact package at a slightly more accessible price.
Key Features:
- Same core signalling tech (GPS, 406 MHz, 121.5 MHz, strobe/infrared lights).
- Long battery life (5 years) and 24+ hours operational time.
- Buoyant, rugged, and multi-clip equipped for easy gear attachment.
- Ocean Signal RescueME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon
Why it's great: Touted as the most compact PLB available - a sleek, lightweight option ideal for minimalist adventurers.
Key Features:
- Pocket-sized: ~ 77 × 51 × 32.5 mm, 116g.
- 66-channel GPS receiver, high-intensity strobe, retractable antenna.
- Simple one-handed activation, waterproof up to 15m.
- 24+ hour runtime, no subscription fees.
- ACR AISLink MOB Personal Locator Beacon
Why it's great: Designed specifically for maritime use - activates AIS and DSC alerts that notify nearby vessels within ~5 miles, offering immediate local response especially in busy waters.
Key features:
- Dual activation: manual or automatic when inflated via life jacket.
- Integrated GPS, ultra-bright LED strobe.
- Long battery life (7 years), rugged and waterproof up to 10m.
- Compact (92 g) and life-jacket ready.
Final Thoughts
When things go wrong at sea, every second counts. Having a Personal Locator Beacon means you can raise the alarm instantly and guide rescuers straight to your position, no matter how remote you are. Compact, durable, and easy to use, PLBs are an essential addition to any safety kit. They provide reassurance not only for you but also for your loved ones back home.
If you're unsure which personal locator beacon is most suited to your requirements, our highly experienced team are here to help - contact us today!
