January 28th, 2009
Now, this is pretty cool. Not near as flashy as James Bond’s watch (which he always seems able to swing into action with) but just as effective. This is the Survival Bracelet and packs 20′ of 550# paracord onto your wrist ready to unravel in a moments notice. And for the color conscience outdoor adventurer, the 1.25″ Survival Bracelet comes in 30 colors. Based on the cord you choose and the size these wrist wrapped ropes will cost you between $17 and $25.

The best part: if you have to use your bracelet, in an emergency situation, just send them the unraveled cord and the story of how you used it and the will wrap it back up for you! Thank goodness, becuase I’d be that guy, in an emergency situation, stressed the whole time of ‘how in the heck am I going to recoil this thing’.

March 31st, 2008
There is always someone missing on the news. Sometimes it is a jittery bride or disposed dictator, but more often than not it is the outdoor enthusiast who excels at getting away from it all and not finding their way back without help.

The above item is the 406 MHz GPS Personal Locator Beacon for someone who wants to make sure they get found. This handy gem will upload your Latitude & Longitude to a satellite when activated. Then contact the proper authorities to your location and who you are since it requires you to register so it will be uniquely coded for you. Boasting pocket-size portability, waterproof and a floater for you slippery handed river rats it sounds great for any outdoor adventurer that can afford the luxury.

The PSD Tools Personal Safety Device by Life + Gear is probably a little more affordable and helps you work with what you got to get out. One minute of cranking equals one hour of flashlight power and it can also be used to power your cell phone (adapters included). If that weren’t enough it packs a screwdriver and bits, flashing emergency light, am/fm radio, and a 130 decibel siren for $36.95.
Of course you can always just tell someone to check on you ever so often, warn a park ranger you’ll be in their park, pack a flare gun, or perhaps you’re perfectly confident in your screaming skills. But where’s the tech in that.