Radiotelephone Calls

 

 

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

 

 

 

 

 

Radiotelephone Calls

 

 

 

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 62 through 73 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.

CAUTION

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.

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.

In any event, do 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 marine to bring the fuel you need or to give you a tow.

Emergency Messages

And Distress Procedure

VHF Marine Radio Protocols

Marine Emergency Signals

The three (3) spoken international emergency signals are:

MAYDAY

The distress signal MAYDAY is used to indicate that a station is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.

PAN

The urgency signal PAN is used when the safety of the vessel or person is in jeopardy. (This signal is properly pronounced pahn.)

SECURITE

The safety signal SECURITE is used for messages about the safety of navigation or important weather warnings. (This signal is properly pronounced see-cure-it-tay.)

When using an international emergency signal, the appropriate signal is to be spoken three (3) times prior to the message.

If You Hear A Distress Call

You must give any message beginning with one (1) of these signals priority over any other messages. ALL stations MUST remain silent on Channel 16 for the duration of the emergency unless the message relates directly to the emergency.

If you hear a distress message from a vessel, stand by your radio. If it is not answered, YOU should answer. If the distressed vessel is not nearby, wait a short time for others who may be closer to acknowledge. Even if you cannot render direct assistance, you may be in a position to relay the message.

 

 

Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra® 11

 

10 English

 

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Cobra Electronics MR F75-D owner manual Radiotelephone Calls, Emergency Messages Distress Procedure

MR F75-D specifications

Cobra Electronics has long been a name associated with reliable communication solutions, and the MR F75-D is no exception. This high-performance marine VHF radio is designed specifically for boaters, offering a blend of essential features, advanced technologies, and user-friendly characteristics that make it an excellent choice for both recreational and commercial marine applications.

One of the standout features of the MR F75-D is its Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability, which allows users to send distress calls and communicate with other vessels or coast guard stations at the push of a button. This increases safety on the water, as it provides an automated means to alert others in case of emergencies.

The radio operates seamlessly on the vital marine channels, ensuring that users have access to all the necessary frequencies for navigation and communication. With an impressive 25 watts of transmitting power, the MR F75-D provides extended range, ensuring that calls can be made even in challenging conditions.

The Cobra MR F75-D boasts an ergonomic design featuring a solid weather-resistant construction to withstand the harsh marine environment. Its large, easy-to-read backlit LCD display enhances readability in bright sunlight or low-light conditions, making it accessible under various circumstances.

Moreover, the radio includes a built-in NOAA weather radio with alerts. This feature keeps users informed about local weather conditions and forecasts, enabling them to make better decisions while out at sea. The option to scan channels and save favorites makes it easy to navigate through crowded frequencies to find the right communication line.

The MR F75-D is equipped with Dual Watch and Tri-Watch functions, allowing users to monitor two or three channels simultaneously. This increases the chances of receiving essential messages while on the water, providing greater peace of mind.

With a compact design, the MR F75-D can fit easily on most boats, while the intuitive controls enhance usability. The radio also supports external GPS connection, offering even better situational awareness.

In conclusion, the Cobra Electronics MR F75-D is a versatile, durable, and feature-rich marine VHF radio. With its DSC capabilities, NOAA weather notifications, and robust build, it proves to be an invaluable tool for safe and efficient marine communication, making it a top choice for any boating enthusiast.