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ASOS - Automatic SOS System

markanite

23-Aug-2006
2:53:55 PM

This was posted on SuperTopo where I obtained mixed results. From my understanding Australia is a lot more used to using txt msgs for every day use (correct me if I am wrong). Therefore, I would your opinion on this project.

Climbers: We (http://www.Spadout.com) are considering developing a tool called ASOS (automatic SOS system). This service would be free. You would login to ASOS, develop a list of emergency contacts (you can include email and cell phone numbers). From then on every time you plan to go climbing (or caving, backpacking etc) you login to ASOS (this can done well in advance) and tell the system when you plan to return (you also can upload maps, directions, medical information etc).

At any time you can send a text message (from your cell phone) to ASOS saying your fine (canceling the SOS). The system will send a text message to your cell phone 15 minutes before the warning is sent out. If no reply is received (you can also go online and cancel) a warning is sent to all email addresses and a text message to all cell phones warning that you need help. It also sends them a link where they can obtain all information you provided (maps etc).

Pre-development questions:

Would this be useful?

Suggestions for improvements / additional features?

Thanks, Mark - http://www.spadout.com

nmonteith

23-Aug-2006
3:13:14 PM

Sounds like a great concept! Nst so great for short weekend trips - but great for longer multi-day
adventures.

belayslave

23-Aug-2006
3:48:03 PM

Sounds like a great idea Mark. Sure would come in handy.

nmonteith

23-Aug-2006
4:01:03 PM

On 23/08/2006 markanite wrote:
>From my understanding
>Australia is a lot more used to using txt msgs for every day use (correct
>me if I am wrong).

Yes. TXT is huge in Australia. Most people have mobile phones and everyone uses TXT.

tnd

23-Aug-2006
5:02:35 PM

On 23/08/2006 nmonteith wrote:
>Yes. TXT is huge in Australia. Most people have mobile phones and everyone
>uses TXT.
>

Unfortunately most of them also write forum posts in TXT (not you Neil).

Phil Box

29-Aug-2006
4:05:08 PM

Whenever I go on a multiday affair in the bush I always let someone responsible know all the details so I in effect have already got a system in place. That person is in a position to alert very competent rescue personnel if the need arises.

There are 6 messages in this topic.