BoatU.S. Foundation Wins Award

Posted by Alan Sorum Feb 18, 2007

EPIRBs or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons are electronic safety devices that can greatly assist rescuers in locating a vessel in distress. Further information on EPIRBs can be found in the article Eliminate the Search in SAR. A drawback of EPIRB use for the occasional boater is the cost. The BoatU.S. Foundation started an EPIRB rental program that provides boaters with access to a beacon at a reasonable cost of $40 per week and shipping.

Motor Boating Magazine announced that the BoatU.S. Foundation's EPIRB Rental Program was their pick for the magazine's "Best of the Year" award. Editorial Director Peter Janssen states, “Motor Boating magazine editors select the absolute best, the top, the true innovations of the year. The awards celebrate all of the elements of the boating life, and it’s my pleasure to congratulate the BoatUS Foundation.” A copy of the press release detailing the award can be seen at the BoatU.S. website.

BoatU.S. claims that their EPIRB rental program helped save the lives of 49 people during 21 incidents since 1997 where the beacons were activated by their customers. Beacons can be reserved online at the BoatU.S. website or by calling 1-888-66-EPIRB between noon and 5 PM EST. Beacons are shipped directly to any renter located within the Continental United States. BoatU.S. recommends making advance reservations during the peak summer boating season when supplies can be limited.