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Q&A · Survival

What should you do during the SOS process?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

During the SOS process, send a distress signal, provide critical location information, and remain calm to ensure rescue teams can locate and respond to your situation effectively.

Activating the SOS Signal

When activating the SOS signal on a Garmin inReach device, it is essential to ensure the device is set to send a distress message to emergency responders. This involves navigating to the SOS menu, selecting “Send SOS,” and confirming the action. The device will then send a distress message to emergency responders, including your location, which is critical for a swift response.

Providing Critical Location Information

Once the SOS signal is sent, it is crucial to provide critical location information to emergency responders. This includes verifying your location using the device’s GPS capabilities and providing any additional context, such as the number of people in your party or any medical conditions. This information can be entered into the device’s message field or sent separately to emergency responders.

Remaining Calm and Cooperative

Remaining calm and cooperative during the SOS process is vital for ensuring a successful rescue. This involves staying on the line with emergency responders, providing any requested information, and following their instructions. It is also essential to stay in the same location, as emergency responders will be relying on your location information to locate you. In some cases, it may be necessary to wait for a rescue team to arrive, which can be a stressful experience. However, staying calm and cooperative will help to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

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