Outdoor experts are encouraging people to make a personal locator beacon (PLB) part of their kit while exploring Otago’s outdoors and waterways this summer.

Maritime NZ and the NZ Search and Rescue Council recently commissioned Consumer magazine to conduct rigorous independent reviews of beacons and lifejackets.

Their conclusions on cost, limitations and suitability for certain locations and activities should be essential reading for anyone looking to hit the water or bush around the country, Maritime NZ Rescue Coordination Centre general manager Justin Allan says.

Reviewers scrutinised PLBs, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon devices (EPIRBs), and Satellite Emergency Notification Devices (SENDS).

Read the findings here.

Stats from NZSAR show that one in three land-based rescues are initiated by a beacon and that 90 percent of those are completed inside eight hours, with 90 percent of rescues where a beacon was not used taking 18 hours.

"Distress beacons are the most effective way of letting people know that you need urgent help and where to find you," Justin said.

Boaties and others are encouraged to take two waterproof ways to call for help.

"Don't rely on a cell phone, have a VHF radio and/or personal locator beacon which is in a waterproof container or bag,” Justin said.

"EPIRBs are the preferred beacons for boats, but PLBs on your person are also ideal for run-abouts, other small vessels and land-based activities.

Consumer’s assessment of beacons included the ease of sending a distress alert, and the level of protection from accidental activation. The testers also considered the impact of wet, cold, or gloved hands on the operation of each device.

"Carrying a beacon will give you the peace of mind that, if you get into trouble, rescue services are contactable, even in remote areas,” Justin said.