The Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon is built for the part of the trip where a phone is no longer enough. It suits tramping routes, offshore boating, kayaking, 4WD travel, farm work, and remote outdoor jobs where emergency contact needs to be independent of mobile coverage.

The PLB1 is a dedicated emergency beacon, not a general messaging device. When activated, it sends a 406MHz distress signal through the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, includes GPS location data, and uses a 121.5MHz homing signal to help rescue teams narrow down the final position. There are no subscription fees, so once it is purchased, NZ coded, and registered, it is kept for genuine emergency use.

The size is a big part of the appeal. At 116g (4.1oz) and 75mm x 51mm x 32mm (3.0 x 2.0 x 1.3 inch), it is small enough to live with your safety gear without being left behind because it feels bulky. The 7-year battery life, 24+ hour transmission at -20C (-4F), waterproof 15m (49ft) rating, and 1 candela strobe give it the core emergency features you want when plans go wrong.

For anyone heading beyond reception, the PLB1 is the kind of safety device that earns its place before the trip starts.

Key Features

• NZ Coded Registration: Supports local beacon registration so rescue coordination centres can identify the registered owner when activated.
• 406MHz Satellite Signal: Sends a 5W distress signal through the Cospas-Sarsat system for emergency alerting beyond mobile coverage.
• GPS Positioning: Uses 66 GPS channels to transmit location coordinates to rescue authorities after activation.
• 121.5MHz Homing Signal: Helps rescue teams refine the final approach once they are in the search area.
• Compact 116g Build: Adds emergency signalling to a pack, belt, or vessel safety kit without taking much space or weight.
• No Subscription Fees: Works as a dedicated emergency beacon without ongoing satellite messenger plan costs.
• 7-Year Battery Life: Long-life battery supports years of safety planning when the recommended testing schedule is followed.
• Waterproof Construction: Rated waterproof to 15m (49ft) for wet outdoor, river, and marine conditions.
• 24+ Hour Operation: Transmits for more than 24 hours at -20C (-4F) once activated.
• Included Accessories: Supplied with belt band, float bag, and belt clip for storage and attachment options.