5
To make an
Emergency Call
on Channel 16:
1. Select Channel 16
Select key 16 on the handset.
2. The distress signal “MAYDAY” is spoken
three times
“MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY”
3. The words “THIS IS”, spoken once followed by
the name of the vessel in distress (spoken three
times) and call sign or boat registration number,
spoken once
“THIS IS BOAT NAME, BOAT NAME,
BOAT NAME, CALL SIGN”
4. Repeat “MAYDAY” and the vessel name,
spoken once
“MAYDAY THIS IS BOAT NAME”
5. Give position of the vessel by latitude and
longitude
Or by bearing (true or magnetic, state which)
and distance to a well-known landmark such as a
navigational aid or a small island, or in any terms
which will assist a responding station in locating the
vessel in distress. Include any information on vessel
movement such as course, speed and destination.
6. State the nature of distress (ie, sinking, fire etc)
followed by the type of assistance required
7. Give additional information such as the number
of persons on board and any other information
which might facilitate rescue
Such as length of vessel, number of persons needing
medical attention, hull color, number of masts, etc.
Channel 16
VHF Emergency Calls
