SOS for inReach Capable Garmin Handhelds

During an emergency, a request for help can be sent out by using the SOS function to contact Garmin Response™ Center.

It is suggested to only use the SOS function in a real emergency situation. The benefit of SOS is that it allows for all sorts of assistance, whether that is a search party sent out when someone is reported missing, or a tow truck sent out for vehicle issues.

If you have questions about using an SOS in specific scenarios, or have follow-up questions after having triggered an SOS for any reason, contact the Garmin Response℠ Center.

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Initiating an SOS Rescue

1. Lift the protective cap, and hold the SOS button.
   

2. Wait for the SOS countdown to begin (20 seconds from start to finish).

   • An audible alert is heard if the devices tones or sounds are turned on. For instructions on changing these settings, see the devices owner's manual.

   • The inReach sends a default message to Garmin Response Center with details about the device's location.

3. Reply to the confirmation message from Garmin Response Center.

   • The reply lets the emergency response service know that the user is capable of interacting with them during the rescue.

   • In the event that a reply is unable to be sent, the rescue still continues regardless.

NOTE: An SOS can be initiated even if the device is not powered on. Holding down the SOS button for around 5 seconds will force the unit to power on and initiate an SOS request.

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What Happens Next?

Garmin Response notifies the appropriate emergency responders of the device's location and the situation. Communication continues via text with them during the emergency while waiting for help to arrive.

For the first 10 minutes of the rescue, an updated location is sent to the emergency response service every minute. To conserve battery power after the first 10 minutes, an updated location is sent every 10 minutes when moving, and every 30 minutes when stationary.

Messages to Garmin Response Center during an SOS are not charged. All other messages during an SOS are charged at the rate designated in the inReach subscription plan.

When SOS is active on an inReach device, no messages or tracking data will be sent to the user's MapShare™ page until the SOS event has been resolved and the inReach device is no longer in an SOS state. This allows for the Teams involved in the search and rescue event to focus on completing their mission in a timely manner. After the event has been resolved, red dots may be displayed on the map page of the user's account for track points that were recorded during the SOS event.

 

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What if I Need to Cancel an SOS?

If you no longer need assistance, or if the SOS was unintentional, you can cancel an SOS rescue after it is sent to the emergency response service.

1. While outside, with clear view to the sky for satellite reception. 

2. Lift the protective cap, and hold the SOS button.

3. Select Cancel or Cancel SOS.

4. If prompted to confirm your cancellation request, select Cancel SOS.

   Your device transmits the cancellation request. When you receive a confirmation message from the emergency response service, the device returns to normal operation.

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Testing SOS

For peace of mind and preparedness, an SOS test may be scheduled. To learn more and set up a test, visit: Garmin Response - Test Device

IMPORTANT: Do not test the SOS feature without prior approval. If testing the SOS feature without approval, charges may be applied for any rescue efforts.