How to Contact the Coastguard Through VHF Radio
Turn on your VHF radio., Tune it to channel 16 156.8Mhz - some radios have a channel 16 button, you can use that. , Locate a dimmer with SQL or Squelch signs., The Coast Guard monitors Ch16 24/7. , Depending on what you need the Coast Guard for...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Turn on your VHF radio.
Turn it clockwise until the maximum then counterclockwise until noise is heard.
At that moment start turning clockwise until noise disappears. ,,,, Remember, speak slowly and calmly. , They will ask for:
Position (Lat and Long, LORAN or Geographic), Nature of Distress, Number of Persons on Board and if they're wearing life jackets, Description of your vessel. , It gives the Coast Guard the fastest way possible to assist you.
Don't risk your life trying to give a detailed description of your vessel. , "Coast Guard (geographic area or nearby town) (say this twice) this is the **your vessel name** over"
They will either gather more information on CH16 or shift you to another frequency, like CH22A
157.1Mhz. -
Step 2: Tune it to channel 16 156.8Mhz - some radios have a channel 16 button
-
Step 3: you can use that.
-
Step 4: Locate a dimmer with SQL or Squelch signs.
-
Step 5: The Coast Guard monitors Ch16 24/7.
-
Step 6: Depending on what you need the Coast Guard for determines how to call the Coast Guard.
-
Step 7: If your situation is an absolute life or death situation call out to the Coast Guard using the words "Mayday Mayday Mayday
-
Step 8: this is **your boats name** and what your situation is (fire/heart attack/sinking/man overboard etc...)over"
-
Step 9: If no response within 10 seconds make another call out in the same manner you did before.
-
Step 10: When the Coast Guard or similar agency (local police/fire/marina) hails back to you
-
Step 11: give them information they ask.
-
Step 12: If you don't have time to give all the information
-
Step 13: your position is the greatest piece of information you can give.
-
Step 14: If the situation is not an absolute life or death situation (ran out of gas
-
Step 15: engine won't start
-
Step 16: fouled prop
-
Step 17: requesting weather) simply call out for the Coast Guard.
-
Step 18: When they answer back to you tell them what you need on CH16.
Detailed Guide
Turn it clockwise until the maximum then counterclockwise until noise is heard.
At that moment start turning clockwise until noise disappears. ,,,, Remember, speak slowly and calmly. , They will ask for:
Position (Lat and Long, LORAN or Geographic), Nature of Distress, Number of Persons on Board and if they're wearing life jackets, Description of your vessel. , It gives the Coast Guard the fastest way possible to assist you.
Don't risk your life trying to give a detailed description of your vessel. , "Coast Guard (geographic area or nearby town) (say this twice) this is the **your vessel name** over"
They will either gather more information on CH16 or shift you to another frequency, like CH22A
157.1Mhz.
About the Author
Brittany Richardson
A seasoned expert in lifestyle and practical guides, Brittany Richardson combines 3 years of experience with a passion for teaching. Brittany's guides are known for their clarity and practical value.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: