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5.7
EPIRB control functions
Control position EPIRB condition
EPIRB mounted
IN / OUT of
bracket
Transmitter
status
ON
READY WET*
DRY
OUT
IN
ON
OFF
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
*Floating or immersed in water.
5.8
False alerts
False alerts are a serious problem for the rescue service. Nearly 90% of
EPIRB initiated distress alerts turn out to be false alarms. Take the following
precautions to prevent inadvertent activation:
•
Make sure that the EPIRB is correctly mounted in the bracket.
•
Keep the EPIRB dry when its not mounted in the bracket.
•
Keep the EPIRB away from strong magnetic fields.
If for any reason, your EPIRB should cause a false alarm, it is most
important that you contact the nearest search and rescue authority and tell
them it was a false alarm.
They can then stand down any rescue service (coast radio station or
appropriate MCC or RCC). Use any means at your disposal to make contact.
Switch off the distress alarm by de-activating your EPIRB, as soon as
possible.
If your beacon is activated in a non-distress situation or a distress situation
which has been resolved and you no longer require assistance, contact the
nearest search and rescue authorities via the most expeditious means
available with the following information: