NOAA’s Holiday Shopping List
Looking for a unique gift idea for that special someone who has everything? Think outside the (gift) box and explore innovative items that are useful, unique and fun! To follow are some of the NOAA’s best gift ideas – just in time for the holidays!
High resolution (Credit: NOAA)
- NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
These life-saving radios broadcast immediate warnings about tornadoes, floods, AMBER Alerts, and even chemical spill in your area. You also can turn them on anytime to get your local weather conditions and forecasts. The radios are available at electronic stores, marine supply stores, mail order catalogs, and online. Prices vary by model and options, but typically range between $20 and $80.
- Nautical Charts and Publications
For the boat owner or enthusiast, give the gift of safety in the form of a nautical chart to help them plot their course. NOAA’s Office of Coast Survey provides both digital and printed nautical charts and other navigation tools to help boaters find and reach their destination safely.
- Emergency Locator Beacons
High resolution (Credit: NOAA)
If you want to ensure the safety of the mariner, pilot, or weekend hikers you know, think about an emergency locator beacon. If you find yourself in peril and have one of these devices with you, NOAA can find and locate you by satellite as part of the Search and Rescue Satellite System. The beacons are easy to register and can be purchased for $1,000 or less online or from a local marine store*. As of Oct. 17, 2008, the system had already saved 236 lives in the United States this year.
- Sustainable Seafood
Instead of a basket of goodies for the food lover on your list, why not cook or treat them to a dinner of sustainably harvested seafood. FishWatch, NOAA’s consumer education Web tool, gives you valuable information on the availability, safety, quality, preparation, and health guidelines for your favorite seafood. It features information on 80 of the most commonly harvested and farmed species consumed in the United States, including information on population size, fishing practices, import/export statistics, photos, factoids, nutritional content, and more.
High resolution (Credit: NOAA)
- NOAA Diving Manual, Diving for Science and Technology, 4th Edition
This definitive encyclopedia of diving is a must-have for serious divers. Topics include diving equipment, breathing gas mixtures, safety, first aid, marine life, and a brief history of diving. Order the $100 manual from the Department of Commerce's National Technical Information Service or from Best Publishing Company by calling 800-468-1055.
* Effective February 1, 2009, emergency beacons operating on the 406 megahertz (MHz) frequency will be the only device that satellites will detect. The new, improved beacons can be detected instantly, they are more accurate, and provide search and rescue personnel with vital registration information. If you own one of the older beacons operating on the 121.5 and 243 MHz frequencies, you must replace it with a 406 MHz device. You must register your 406 MHz beacon with NOAA, which can be done easily online.