By Clare Foran

We live in the age of Web 2.0, blackberries, ipods and kindles. But when does an ability to effectively use technology become a liability?

As GPS technology becomes more affordable, hikers are increasingly reliant on equipment like SPOT, a hand-held satellite communication device designed for use in remote locations in the event of an emergency.

These devices are capable of sending out a distress call with GPS coordinates so that hikers-in-need can be found by search and rescue teams. Yet, as Matt Scharper, Deputy Chief Search and Rescue Coordinator at the California Emergency Management Agency, explained to Melissa Block on All Things Considered this week, availability of these devices has created a false sense of security leading some hikers to take on challenges they otherwise would not normally attempt.

This technology can be life-saving. Problems arise, however, when you try to define what constitutes an emergency. In many cases, the devices are used by travel-weary hikers who perceive their situation to be much worse than it actually is.

In one case, an inexperienced hiker became alarmed by an impending thunderstorm and activated the device. Any time a distress call is received search and rescue teams set out to respond, often at great personal risk.

As technology improves we all stand to benefit. Yet, it is important to also be aware of potential pitfalls.



categories: Gadgets

11:52 - October 27, 2009

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