What is the primary purpose of a PLB?

• A. Personal locator beacon
• B. Public life buoy
• C. Portable lantern
• D. Positioning data logger

Answer: (A)

A PLB is designed to transmit a distress signal to rescue authorities via satellite, giving responders your location so they can find you quickly. In a kayaking emergency, this international beacon works even when you have no cell service or radio range, because it communicates through a satellite network. When activated, it sends a beacon signal (and, if equipped with GPS, your exact coordinates) to initiate a search-and-rescue response. This is why a PLB is the best answer for the primary purpose.

This isn’t a buoy for flotation, a portable lantern, or a device that only logs where you’ve been. A public life buoy is for helping someone stay afloat physically, a portable lantern provides light, and a positioning data logger records routes without summoning help. The PLB’s job is specifically to alert authorities and guide them to your location in an emergency.