The majority of ELT and EPIRB emergency transmissions are false alarms. False alarms divert the valuable search and rescue efforts that could be well utilized for genuine emergency situations. On the 121.5 MHz frequency, the Cospas-Sarsat system receives approximately 1000 false alarms for every actual emergency. On 406 MHz approximately 7 false alarms are received for every actual emergency.  Additionally, four out of five 406 MHz false alarms are resolved with phone calls. Obviously, the best way to reduce false alarms (and increase the odds of being rescued) is to go for a 406 MHz EPIRB or ELT.