Sparwood SAR was contacted by RCMP, advising that a SPOT beacon had its "SOS" mode activated in a backcountry location in the Corbin Road area. SAR members mapped the location and were preparing to respond when an updated location was reported several kilometers from the first, and a "Check-in" message was sent. The SOS had not been cancelled however, so we re-formulated our plan to account for the fact the subjects were moving and would be much harder to find. Shortly afterward, the RCMP reported their members had made contact with the subjects on the main forestry road, and confirmed the SOS message had been accidental and all was well.

We would like to pass on a few tips to anyone carring a satellite emergency beacon:

- Even if you're carrying an emergency beacon, it is still important to leave a trip plan with your emergency contact. The more information we have, the easier it is to respond appropriately to an emergency.
- Make sure you are familiar with all features of your beacon, and check your owners' manual for the procedure to properly cancel a distress signal; sending a "check in" or "ok" message does not cancel the SOS.
- If you do activate the "SOS" mode on your beacon, a search will be launched for you and won't be stood down until we are confident you are not in distress. If the SOS is accidental, make sure you cancel it right away or contact the police and/or your emergency contact ASAP and let them know you're alright. If it's not possible to call anyone within a reasonable time frame, stay close to where the beacon was activated so we can find you easily and confirm you're alright.