5.False alarms
To prevent false alarms, it is important to be aware of how your beacon can be activated. An ACR 406 MHz EPIRB can be activated by two different methods. Whether you have a Category I or Category II, these methods are the same.
//When the beacon is out of its bracket and wet, the unit will start transmitting
//When the switch is moved to the “ON” position, in or out of the bracket, the unit will start transmitting
Precautions to prevent false alarms
//Do not mount or transport the beacon within 4.6 ft/1.4 m of a magnetic source.
//Do not store the beacon outside of its bracket if it can get wet.
//Do not mount the EPIRB backwards in its bracket (lanyard roll must face in).
//Do not clean the beacon with a water hose and brush while out of its bracket.
Reporting
Should there be, for any reason, an inadvertent activation or false alarm, it must be reported to the nearest search and rescue authorities. The information that should be reported includes:
//The EPIRB
//Time and date
//Duration and cause of activation
//Location of beacon at the time of activation
To report false alarms in the United States, contact any of the following:
US Region | Telephone Number |
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Atlantic Ocean / Gulf of Mexico | (757) |
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USCG Atlantic Area Command Center |
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Pacific Ocean Area / | (510) |
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USCG Area Command Center |
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USCG HQ Command Center | (800) |
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To report false alarms outside of the USA, contact the national authority where your beacon is registered.
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