MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 19, 2014) - Globalstar (NYSE:GSAT) today released the results of a survey* which reveals that the overwhelming majority of Canadians (92%) want steady, reliable 24/7 access to emergency services to stay safe during unpredictable winter road trips and outdoor adventures. The survey was conducted for Globalstar by Nielsen through their weekly telephone omnibus, teleVox.
On the eve what many weather forecasters are predicting to be a severe winter, being prepared with a vital line of communications to family, friends and emergency responders, can be a life-saving decision for road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts. According to the new Globalstar survey, when it comes to winter road trips and outdoor adventures, the majority of Canadians say that it is important to have a back-up communications plan:
- 92% of Canadians say it is important to maintain 24/7 access to 9-1-1 emergency services.
- 76% of Canadians say it is important to ensure a vital line of communication access for family, friends and co-workers.
- 61% of Canadians say it is important to have a reliable, back-up communications plan to cellular.
- 51% of Canadians say it is important to have GPS-based location tracking and messaging capabilities.
"For Canadians who want to be prepared for road travel and outdoor adventures this winter, SPOT can provide a vital line of communications through satellite-based connectivity and real-time GPS tracking, completely independent of cellular coverage," said Jim Mandala, Vice President and General Manager of Globalstar Canada Satellite Co. "Since the technology's launch in 2007, SPOT products have been used to initiate over 3,000 rescues around the world, and close to 1,000 rescues in Canada."
Dave Taylor, a volunteer member of the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA), says: "This winter, SPOT can be an important part of trip planning and emergency preparedness for anyone considering outdoor adventures off-the-beaten track or in the back country. SPOT can tell others where you are with GPS accuracy even if you don't know where you are. And, with tracking mode enabled and a good trip plan in place, your GPS coordinates are plotted at pre-set intervals on a map so that even if you are unable to initiate a call for help, your last reported coordinates can be used as a starting point which can significantly reduce search times. Bottom line - carry an emergency communications device and file a trip plan."
SPOT products deliver peace of mind, reliable connectivity and accurate GPS tracking solutions that are relevant to millions of users around the world. The SPOT family includes:
- SPOT Gen3™ (SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger) - a rugged and affordable GPS tracking device that provides on or off-the-grid messaging, emergency alerts, and GPS tracking.
- SPOT Global Phone - an affordable satellite phone that allows users to make calls virtually anywhere, even beyond the boundaries of cellular.
- SPOT Trace™ - a GPS tracking device which uses 100% satellite technology to track anything, anytime, anywhere (including cars, snowmobiles, boats or other valuable gear).
SPOT is available at retailers including MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op), Sail, London Drugs, Atmosphere, and at independent electronics dealers across Canada and online. For more information on where to buy SPOT, visit FindMeSPOT.com or call 866-651-SPOT.
About SPOT LLC
SPOT LLC, a subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., provides affordable satellite communication and tracking devices for recreational use. SPOT Global Phone uses the Globalstar network to transmit two-way voice and data communications. SPOT messaging devices use both the GPS satellite network and the Globalstar network to transmit text messages and GPS coordinates. Since 2007, SPOT has provided peace of mind by allowing customers to remain in contact completely independent of cellular coverage, having initiated over 3,000 rescues worldwide.
Note that all SPOT products described in this press release are the products of SPOT LLC, which is not affiliated in any manner with Spot Image of Toulouse, France or Spot Image Corporation of Chantilly, Virginia. SPOT Connect is a trademark of Spot LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
About Globalstar, Inc.
Globalstar is a leading provider of mobile satellite voice and data services. Globalstar offers these services to commercial and recreational users in more than 120 countries around the world. The Company's products include mobile and fixed satellite telephones, simplex and duplex satellite data modems and flexible service packages. Many land based and maritime industries benefit from Globalstar with increased productivity from remote areas beyond cellular and landline service. Global customer segments include: oil and gas, government, mining, forestry, commercial fishing, utilities, military, transportation, heavy construction, emergency preparedness, and business continuity as well as individual recreational users. Globalstar data solutions are ideal for various asset and personal tracking, data monitoring and SCADA applications. For more information regarding Globalstar Canada Satellite Co., please visit Globalstar's web site at www.globalstar.ca .
*Data was collected between October 2nd and 6th, 2014. A total of 873 Canadians with cell phones in the household were surveyed. Results are considered accurate +/- 3.3%, 19 times out of 20.
