When using the VHF Radio, there is some important information to know.
Channel 16 is designated as the national distress, safety and calling frequency. All vessels should monitor this channel while underway.
The local Coast Guard Station will broadcast important information over this channel. This may involve a boater in distress, a hazard or a safety warning. They will either be securité, pan-pan, or may day.
Securité, (pronounced sea-cur-i-tay), is the safety signal. It is used to alert boaters to potential hazards or approaching inclement weather.
Pan pan, (pronounced pahn-pahn) is used to relay urgent information such as a person in the water or a boat has broken down in a dangerous area. This is used when the danger is not life threatening. Other boaters are urged to keep a lookout and assist as they are able.
Mayday is urgent and eminent danger. This is only used when lives are at risk and immediate assistance is needed. This is what helped save Myla!
If you find yourself in need of help, there is procedure to use when making a distress call. Using channel 16 on the VHF radio, repeat the phrase three times, “pan pan, pan pan, pan pan.” Identify your vessel by registration, type and color of the boat. Identify who is on board and the emergency. Then release the mic and wait for a response.
Channel 16 is monitored at all times and should not be used for routine conversation. Understanding these different calls for help can assist you in getting the help you need or allow you to assist others.
Thanks to Sherrie, we will always remember safe boating is no accident.
If you would like to learn more about vessel safety checks, please contact Steve Hults, Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations at steve.hults@uscgaux.net.
Please contact us for more information about our safe boating classes or learning more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.
