Do you know exactly what to do in the event of an emergency? Follow our emergency electronics checklist and keep this information handy to provide to rescuers once contact is established.
1. Who: Identify yourself by boat name and radio call sign, if you have one.
2. Where: Report your location as precisely as possible, preferably by GPS latitude and longitude, followed by general location (34 miles south-southeast of Shinnecock Inlet).
3. What: Explain the type of distress or difficulty present (taking on water, fire in the engine room).
4. How Many: Give the number of souls on board and their condition, if injured.
5. Seaworthiness: State the condition of your boat (dead in the water, one engine disabled, listing to port, etc.).
6. Description: Describe your boat in detail (type, manufacturer, color, superstructure, striping and any other distinguishing features).
7. Repetition: Let go of the mike button. Wait 10 seconds and repeat, starting with Mayday-Mayday-Mayday. Once in contact, you’ll need to provide the information from steps one through six.
Panic Button
That red button marked DSC (digital selective calling) can instantly broadcast a distress signal and report your exact location and more to rescue agencies. To activate you need to obtain a marine ID called an MMSI number and have it programmed into the radio. Also, connect your VHF and GPS.
