Dead Man's Switch
Don't be a Dead Man
Get found first
Tell us when we should start worrying. If you don't check in, we alert your people — and escalate from there.
Built for off-grid Australia
Cape York, the Simpson, the Gibb — places where apps that need constant signal fail. You tell us when you expect coverage again. SMS and email do the job.
How it works
You don't need reception the whole time. Set an ETA for when you'll be back in coverage — SMS and email do the job.
- 01 — Set your ETA
Tell us the plan
Where you're heading, when we should start worrying, and who we should contact if you don't check in.
- 02 — Head off-grid
We ping you at your ETA
SMS and email do the job. When it's time to check in, reply to the SMS or tap the email link.
- 03 — Missed check-in
We escalate
First a warning to you. Then your emergency contacts. Then we keep going — so someone knows you're overdue.
Optional extra
If you've got a satellite tracker
You don't need one — SMS and email still do the job. But if you carry a Garmin inReach, SPOT, or Zoleo, we can fold it into the same process.
- 01 — Link your device
Pair it to your satellite tracker
Optional extra — your phone still gets every reminder. Link an inReach, SPOT, or Zoleo so a check-in from the tracker still counts when you have no mobile coverage.
- 02 — Check in anywhere
Any reply counts
A message from the linked messenger marks you safe, even with zero mobile coverage. No extra app from us.
- 03 — Missed check-in
Same escalation
If you don't check in from the phone, email, or messenger, we still escalate the usual way — contacts, then the extra trip details search and rescue otherwise wouldn't get.
FAQ
The questions people usually ask before they head off-grid.
Do I need phone reception the whole time?
No. You only need reception when your ETA hits. That's when we send you an SMS and an email asking if you're alright. Reply to the text or click the link in the email — that deactivates the ETA. Until then, we don't need you online.
What if I'm just running late?
Build extra time into the original ETA before you drop off coverage. You can't change it once the trip is live, and you won't be able to check in from out of range unless you've paired a satellite messenger.
How do I check in?
We send you an SMS and an email asking if you're alright. Reply to the SMS, or click the link in the email. Either one deactivates the ETA and stops us escalating. If you've paired an inReach, SPOT X, or Zoleo, any reply from that messenger does the same. Your phone SMS still works too.
What happens if I don't check in?
If you don't reply to the SMS or click the email link, the ETA stays active. We send you a warning first. Then we contact your emergency contacts. Then we keep going — including the extra trip details search and rescue otherwise wouldn't get. Your contacts can call it off if they hear from you.
Do I need a satellite tracker?
No. Pairing a tracker is optional and does not replace your mobile. The default process is SMS and email: we ask if you're alright, you reply or click a link, and that deactivates the ETA. A messenger means you can also check in with zero mobile coverage.
What if I can't hit SOS?
You don't have to. This service is the missed check-in — the backup for motorcycle riders, mountaineers, and anyone who might not reach a button. Device SOS still goes through your messenger's own rescue service; we don't take that over.
Is this instead of a PLB or telling a mate?
No. This is an experimental beta — not a substitute for proper remote-travel kit. Carry comms, tell someone your plans, and don't rely on us as your only safety plan.
Does it work outside Australia?
Not yet. You need an Australian mobile (04 / +61 4). Built for Cape York, the Simpson, the Gibb — and the rest of off-grid Australia.