Appendix: Maritime Radio Use in the VHF Frequency Range
Special Channel Assignments
Emergency Channel
If you are in imminent and grave danger at sea and require emergency assistance, use VHF Channel 16 to send a distress call to nearby vessels and the United States Coast Guard. Transmit the following information, in this order:
1“MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY.”
2“THIS IS _____________________, CALL SIGN __________.”
State the name of the vessel in distress 3 times, followed by the call sign or other identification of the vessel, stated 3 times.
3Repeat “MAYDAY” and the name of the vessel.
4“WE ARE LOCATED AT _______________________.”
State the position of the vessel in distress, using any information that will help responders to locate you, e.g.:
•latitude and longitude
•bearing (state whether you are using true or magnetic north)
•distance to a
•vessel course, speed or destination
5State the nature of the distress.
6Specify what kind of assistance you need.
7State the number of persons on board and the number needing medical attention, if any.
8Mention any other information that would be helpful to responders, such as type of vessel, vessel length and/or tonnage, hull color, etc.
9“OVER.”
10Wait for a response.
11If you do not receive an immediate response, remain by the radio and repeat the transmission at intervals until you receive a response. Be prepared to follow any instructions given to you.
ASTRO XTS 2500 Model I | 49 |