Gecko helmet with waterproof VHF comms

Channelwatch · 19 September 2006, 21:31

Just had a chance to put our most recent safety addition to the test and must say it worked like a charm.

We have found that a waterproof handheld VHF carried on you has probably done as much to save lives as any other piece of safety gear. Although range is not as great as a 25W fixed VHF we find that safety agencies like ourselves and USCG have remote antennas which can receive handled signals from a great distance.

If you end up in the water or your electrical power is lost, a waterproof handheld can be the difference between life and dead and Gecko's communication setup is great, especially for all of us go fast RIBers. Check it out at http://www.geckoheadgear.co.uk/gmsh_comms.htm.

We have the helmet and headset attached to an Icom M72, which I think is the same as the M71 for the other side of the pond, combined with a life jacket with a pocket. Our swimmer actually used the setup to swim a tow line to the beach and direct our tow vessel once the line was attached. Other than the mic foam getting a little water logged comms were great, including while he was in the water.

Our usage is a little extreme but what a great setup for RIBS. The helmet is very comfortable and one size fits all, plus having the ability to hear a VHF while at speed is great. Safety and waterproof comms all in one package - another great product from the UK.

Biggles · 20 September 2006, 20:38

That does look good. I looked on the Gecko website but couldn't determine if the setup would work with my Icom MI Euro V, do you know if it does. I see you are using a Icom handset. Do you know if it has the same fitting ?

pop · 20 September 2006, 21:57

why do you need a helmet? oh yer you live in america

they make you wear a seat belt in a car "automobile", helmet on a motorbike and now you want a helmet on the last remaining PEACE OF FUN?

Limey Linda · 20 September 2006, 23:12

The " Bill and Ben" hat looks a whole lot better.

Biggles · 21 September 2006, 18:09

Quote:

Originally Posted by pop

why do you need a helmet? oh yer you live in america

they make you wear a seat belt in a car "automobile", helmet on a motorbike and now you want a helmet on the last remaining PEACE OF FUN?

Pop,

I keep the helmet for when its lashing it down. I ain't quite hard enough to withstand rain pelting in to my face at 40 mph. And I come from Yorkshire where rain is the order of the day.

pop · 21 September 2006, 18:13

that probably the best thing about it, stops the rain! how much are they? a pair of snowboarding googles would do the same have you tried them?

looks like you have a cool job.

Channelwatch · 22 September 2006, 01:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biggles

That does look good. I looked on the Gecko website but couldn't determine if the setup would work with my Icom MI Euro V, do you know if it does. I see you are using a Icom handset. Do you know if it has the same fitting ?

We us the Icom M72 because it's waterproof to 1.5M and easy to use and I believe it's the same as the M71 sold in the UK. If you email Gecko they will let you know if they can provide a headset for your radio. I understand they make many different plugs.

Our main use for the helmet is when conducting salvages or rescues involving working in the surf or boarding other vessels in rough seas but I have found myself using it on the Mitigator due to the ease of comms and comfort. It keeps my head warm, wind and water out of my face (with visor), I can hear and transmit on the VHF at speed, and most important of all I can't keep the "Bill and Ben" hat on at 50mph.

The Mitigator also has a David Clark headset for the main VHF but it's not waterproof and is hard wired to the boat.