Equipment Outfitters

A radio lets you communicate with others and it provides a way to broadcast in an emergency. The most common type of radio is the VHF/FM, monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard and used to communicate with other boats, marinas and bridges. In addition, the VHF radio can be linked to land-based telephones for calling friends and businesses. Its range is limited to about 15 miles between boats.

Selecting a VHF Radio

Most radios have 78 or more channels, including Channel 16 which is used in emergencies. More expensive models have scanners that monitor two or more channels, waterproof components and keypad channel entry. You will need a radio station license that provides the call letters for your boat. License forms are available from your dealer, marine electronics store or the local FCC office.

Using the VHF Radio

Channel 16 is used in emergencies and for making contact with other vessels before switching to other channels to converse. When you are out on the water, leave your radio tuned to Channel 16 and adjust the squelch knob so that the static disappears. Safety information, storm advisories and emergencies are often announced on this channel. Weather information is transmitted continuously on one of the WX channels.

Calling Another Boat

• Listen on Channel 16 to see if it is busy.
• State the name of the boat you are calling, followed by your boat name and call sign. You may repeat the call but you must not take more than 30 seconds. Example: “Phaedra, this is Halcyon, WYS 5386.”
• Listen for a response and wait at least two minutes before repeating the call.
• After establishing contact on Channel 16, both boats should switch to an agreed upon “working channel” to free Channel 16 for emergencies. Example: “Phaedra, switch to 71, over.”
• The word “over” indicates that you have finished your transmission and are waiting for a response.
• To end a call, give your boat name, call sign and the word “out.” Example: “This is Halcyon, WYS 5386, out.”

Tune to Channel 16.

Slowly and clearly say the word “Mayday” three times, followed by your boat name three times and your call sign.

• Repeat the word “Mayday” and your boat name and call sign.
• Give your position, usually in bearing and distance from a known landmark.
• Briefly describe the nature of your emergency and the assistance you need.
• Provide a description of the boat, length, color and number of people aboard.

Listen on Channel 16 for a response and, if one is not heard promptly, repeat the Mayday message.

Example

Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, this is Halcyon, Halcyon, Halcyon, WYS 5386.

Mayday, this is Halcyon, WYS 5386, located two miles due east of Rocky Point, engine on fire, taking on water. Need immediate assistance. Halcyon is a 24-foot gas inboard cruiser, white hull, blue deck, four persons aboard. This is Halcyon, WYS 5386, over.

If your boat or crew is not in immediate danger, substitute the phrase “Pan-Pan” (pronounced pahnpahn) for “Mayday” when requesting assistance.

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