VHF Marine Radiotelephone Calls
VHF Marine Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Radiotelephone Calls
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Boaters may make and receive radiotelephone calls to and from any number on the telephone network by using the services of public coast stations. Calls can be made — for a fee — between your radio and telephones on land, sea and in the air. See pages 18 through 27 for the public correspondence (marine operator) channels.
If you plan to use these services, consider registering with the operator of the public coast station that you plan to work through. Those services can provide you with detailed information and procedures to follow.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
VHF Marine Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure
The ability to summon assistance in an emergency is the primary reason to have a VHF marine radio. The marine environment can be unforgiving, and what may initially be a minor problem can rapidly develop into a situation beyond your control.
The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16, responds to all distress calls,
and coordinates all search and rescue efforts. Depending on the availability of other capable vessels or commercial assistance operators in your vicinity, Coast Guard or Coast Guard Auxiliary craft may be dispatched.
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NOTICE
You may disclose privileged information during a radiotelephone call. Keep in mind that your transmission is NOT private, as it is on a regular telephone. Both sides of the conversation are being broadcast and can be heard by anyone who has a radio and tunes to the channel you are using.
In any event, communicate with the Coast Guard as soon as you experience difficulties and before your situation becomes an emergency. Use the emergency message procedures only after your situation has become grave or you are faced with a sudden danger threatening life or property and requiring immediate help. Use Channel 16 to communicate your emergency message. Make sure you transmit on high power. If you are merely out of gas, do not send an emergency message. Drop your anchor and call a friend or marina to bring the fuel you need or to give you a tow.
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