PLB Use And Maintenance

Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs), those pint-sized, individual rescue beacons used by boaters, sailors, and paddlers to summon emergency help have saved hundreds of lives since their authorization for use 17 years ago. That doesn't mean they are maintenance free, according to the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety. The boating safety nonprofit offers these simple tips to maintain and use a PLB.

• PLBs need to be registered with NOAA. As a way to ensure accurate, up-to-date information, registration is valid for just two years. While NOAA will attempt to reach you to re-register, it's a good i...