ASTRO XTS 5000 Model II 129

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 well-known landmark
• 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.”
10 Wait for a response.
11 If 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.
94C26-K_XTS5000Mdl2.book Page 129 Friday, April 25, 2008 9:48 PM