Question 26D5

When abandoning ship, the primary goal is to maximize the chances of rescue. EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon), SART (Search and Rescue Transponder), and portable VHF radios (sometimes referred to as SCT - Survival Craft Transceivers) are critical GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) equipment designed for this purpose. * **EPIRB:** Transmits a distress signal via satellite, providing your location. It must be taken into the survival craft so it can continue transmitting from the water surface, not sink with the vessel. * **SART:** Provides a radar beacon response for nearby search and rescue vessels or aircraft. It is essential for pinpointing the survival craft's location on radar. Like the EPIRB, it must be with the survivors. * **Portable VHF (SCT):** Allows for short-range voice communication with rescue craft once they are in the vicinity. Taking these units to the survival craft ensures they remain operational and with the survivors, allowing for continuous distress signaling, detection, and communication, significantly improving the chances of a successful rescue. Options A and D incorrectly specify sending a VHF-DSC Distress alert on Ch-16; DSC alerts are sent on Ch-70. Option B is incorrect because leaving the EPIRB on the sinking vessel defeats its purpose.