COVINGTON, La., June 18, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Globalstar, Inc. (NYSE MKT:GSAT), the leader in satellite communications and emergency notification technologies, today announced that Disaster Tech Lab is using Globalstar's satellite phones and SPOT handheld messengers to improve the efficiency of its humanitarian rescue operations and enhance the safety of its volunteers in disaster zones. Disaster Tech Lab sets up networks and services that enable communications for aid organizations and NGOs as well as affected communities. These services will now be backed by Globalstar's instant infrastructure independent of terrestrial coverage, which means even more rapid provisioning of interoperable communications systems.
Disaster Tech Lab's volunteers in Nepal, setting up communications networks in the aftermath of the recent earthquakes, are already using SPOT Gen3® units. The rugged, easy-to-use handheld devices are set up to automatically report the user's location at regular intervals. The device includes a 'check-in' button to send to Disaster Tech Lab's headquarters with a prepared message, indicating that all is OK, as well as an SOS feature in case of emergency. SPOT has initiated over 3,500 life-saving rescues to date and is already relied upon by numerous emergency management organizations.
Globalstar GSP-1700 satellite phones, currently free when activating on select airtime plans, will be used by Disaster Tech Lab's communications and IT specialist volunteers to coordinate activities with the head office, such as planning the shipment of solar powered satellite terminals.
"Globalstar satellite phones will make a big difference to us. We will be less reliant on VHF radios and will be able to overcome logistical challenges in getting the right equipment to the right place, speeding up operations significantly," said Evert Bopp, founder of Disaster Tech Lab. "At times, we can have up to five separate teams operating in demanding circumstances around the world. With the SPOT app on my smartphone, I can easily see where every team is and be reassured that they are safe. Their friends and family can also have that reassurance."
"By providing communications equipment on the ground, Disaster Tech Lab plays a pivotal role in helping aid agencies communicate and disaster victims stay in touch with loved ones and authorities. Even in a technologically sophisticated environment, such as New York in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the emergency services and NGOs turned to Disaster Tech Lab to provide communications. Their expertise also extends to bringing Wi-Fi to remote villages devastated by typhoons and other natural disasters, enabling locals to use Skype for the first time to get in touch. With Globalstar satellite services added to their solution, we are ensuring these volunteers are able to plan better and be kept safe," said Jay Monroe, Chairman and CEO, Globalstar.
About Globalstar, Inc.
Globalstar is a leading provider of mobile satellite voice and data services. Globalstar offers these services to commercial and recreational users 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. Globalstar 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.
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 Disaster Tech Lab
Disaster Tech Lab is an all-volunteer organisation which uses Wi-Fi to reconnect disconnected communities in disaster zones across the globe. It also supports other disaster response organisation by providing IP-based communication services. Solar power is used whenever possible.
In between deployments the organisation researches and develops new technologies and new applications of existing technologies in order to improve disaster response work.
Disaster Tech Lab was established in 2010 following the Haiti earthquake. It currently has 175 volunteers across 11 countries with equipment depots in Ireland, Australia, Philippines and two in the US. The organisation has in the past deployed teams to Haiti, the USA, Vanuatua, the Philippines and currently Nepal. In recognition of its work after Hurricane Sandy, Disaster Tech Lab founder Evert Bopp was invited to the White House in 2013 where he was presented with a certificate of appreciation for their work by Mr. Richard Serrino Deputy Administrator for FEMA.