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Boundary Waters / Quetico Discussion Forums >> General Boundary Waters / Quetico Discussion >> cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico? https://quietjourney.com/community/YABB.cgi?num=1313094644 Message started by Rocky on Aug 11^th, 2011 at 8:30pm

Title: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by Rocky on Aug 11^th, 2011 at 8:30pm

Sometimes we rent a Satellite phone for Quetico trips for use only in case of emergency. I have heard that sometimes cell phone text messages go through even when the service coverage is really bad. Has anyone tried sending or receiving cell phone text messages in Quetico? Does anyone know if this works and so I can replace the expensive and heavy Satellite phone.

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by BillConner on Aug 11^th, 2011 at 10:01pm

I have on a few occasions tried it and it works only from a few areas - Ranger Bay and the north side of Bayley Bay come to mind. I would never depend upon it. Do look at the Spot Connect that allows some messages (out going) via satellite, with either a specific GPS or an I-whatever. I have asked if anyone has tried this but have not heard back.

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by Ranger on Aug 11^th, 2011 at 10:26pm

I have a Delorme GPS + SPOT, which has text capability. I haven't tried to text yet, but I plan to on my trip next month. I have only used the GPS so far, with mixed results. The Delorme unit appears to require a computer science degree, which I do not have. :-?

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by Jim J Solo on Aug 12^th, 2011 at 4:12pm

Ranger, I'd like to hear more about the DeLorme GPS w/Spot. When you or anyone has some really life experience to share, please start a tread about it. I've read the website info, used Garmin GPS's, and seen Spots used by themselves.

My girl friend is planning on soloing Lake Superior and this would be a great way to do resupplies & pickups.

On topic, Someone did get a cell call out from Pickeral Lake, near the start of the "B" chain, for a medical emergency I witnessed.

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by solotripper on Aug 15^th, 2011 at 2:54pm

Quote:

My girl friend is planning on soloing Lake Superior

Off topic as well, but if she does a trip, that would make a great read in the Other Places to paddle area.

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by Jim on Aug 15^th, 2011 at 10:20pm

I just saw this option in Popular Science Magazine. Not cheap, but an option.

"Paired with an Android phone, DeLorme’s inReach satellite link allows you to send and receive text messages from anywhere on the globe. The 1.7-inch-thick device connects to a worldwide network of high-speed Iridium satellites to beam messages or emergency signals. DeLorme inReach: $250 (plus monthly subscription, $10+); DeLorme"

Title: Re: cell phone texting for emergency in Quetico?
Post by Preacher on Aug 16^th, 2011 at 5:20pm

solotripper wrote on Aug 15^th, 2011 at 2:54pm:

Quote:

My girl friend is planning on soloing Lake Superior

Off topic as well, but if she does a trip, that would make a great read in the Other Places to paddle area.

Not to further the off topic, but there's a great TR over on Solotripping from a woman who just did exactly this.