Garmin reports more than 3,000 SOS messages sent from its inReach devices last year. Most came from hikers and backpackers. The next largest group were drivers and motorcyclists who got stuck or injured in remote areas. The data shows that outdoor users rely heavily on satellite communication when emergencies strike far from cell coverage.
Garmin also notes more SOS calls during water activities. Boating and sailing incidents rose compared to previous years. The company does not specify vessel type or location but points out an upward trend worth noting for anyone who spends time on the water.
Injuries led the list of reasons people pressed the SOS button, followed by vehicle accidents and medical events such as altitude sickness or heart problems. About 12 percent of cases were resolved through self-rescue with guidance from Garmin’s Response Center. That support helped users avoid full-scale rescue operations.
The data reinforces what many explorers already know. Reliable communication gear is critical when conditions turn bad. A Garmin inReach device can send a location, summon help, or provide instructions when every minute counts. Many adventure travelers now consider it as essential as a first-aid kit or knife. It saves lives.
My two cents…
Nothing but praise for the Garmin inReach. Found my tank bag, caught some thieves when I was touring in Peru a few years ago.
Click on the link below for the full article:
https://www.rideapart.com/news/788299/garmin-inreach-sos-report-2025/
