Which action is used to initiate a distress transmission on a VHF radio?

Which action is used to initiate a distress transmission on a VHF radio?

• A. Switch to the coast guard channel and speak loudly.
• B. Use Channel 16 on VHF and then switch to a working channel, or use DSC with the device.
• C. Text the authorities from a cell phone.
• D. Yell for help.

Answer: (B)

Distress transmissions on a VHF radio start on Channel 16 because it is the international distress and hailing channel that coast guards and nearby vessels monitor constantly. The proper move is to initiate a voice Mayday on Channel 16, clearly stating your vessel’s name, location, and the nature of the emergency, and then move to a working channel for ongoing communications to coordinate rescue efforts. If your radio can do Digital Selective Calling, you can also send a DSC distress alert, which automatically notifies the appropriate coast station and nearby vessels with your vessel’s identity and position. These methods provide a rapid, recognized way to summon help, whereas yelling or texting wouldn’t reliably reach the proper responders in an emergency.

Distress transmissions on a VHF radio start on Channel 16 because it is the international distress and hailing channel that coast guards and nearby vessels monitor constantly. The proper move is to initiate a voice Mayday on Channel 16, clearly stating your vessel’s name, location, and the nature of the emergency, and then move to a working channel for ongoing communications to coordinate rescue efforts. If your radio can do Digital Selective Calling, you can also send a DSC distress alert, which automatically notifies the appropriate coast station and nearby vessels with your vessel’s identity and position. These methods provide a rapid, recognized way to summon help, whereas yelling or texting wouldn’t reliably reach the proper responders in an emergency.