Yourbestsail · video

What this video covers

Distress calls require a specific, two-part procedure involving both a Digital Selective Calling (DSC) radio alert and a voice transmission on VHF channel 16.3:35 Operators should press the red distress button for three to four seconds to trigger the automatic DSC alert, then immediately follow with a voice call at 25 watts.2:19 The voice transmission must include the vessel name, call sign, and nine-digit Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number, repeated clearly.5:55 Position data is vital and should be provided using both latitude and longitude coordinates and, for clarity, a bearing and distance from a prominent coastal landmark.8:43

Accidental distress alerts, often caused by children or inadvertent button presses, require immediate cancellation to avoid legal penalties.1:20 To cancel a DSC alert, turn the radio off and back on, then broadcast a general call on channel 16 to all stations, identifying the vessel and the time of the erroneous alert.12:45 If an EPIRB satellite beacon activates accidentally, contact the nearest coastal rescue station directly to cancel the signal.16:40 Keeping a written copy of these procedures near the radio station ensures accuracy during emergencies.3:04

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