Subelement G: VHF-DSC Equipment & Comms— Topic :
Question 47G4
Element 7R (GMDSS-RO)To send a Distress alert use the following procedure:
Explanation
Modern VHF radios equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) feature a dedicated "Distress Hot Key." Pressing and holding this button immediately transmits an automated digital distress alert to all DSC-equipped stations within range. This alert includes the vessel's Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI), current position, and time, significantly accelerating rescue efforts. It is the fastest and most reliable method to alert authorities and other vessels, even if the operator is injured or unable to speak.
Option A, navigating menus, is too slow for an emergency. Option D, making a voice Mayday call first, bypasses the automated efficiency and guaranteed data transmission of DSC. While a voice Mayday call on Ch-16 is crucial for follow-up, the DSC alert should precede it to ensure the initial call for help is sent immediately. Option C is incorrect because the initial DSC alert is pre-programmed data; the nature of the distress is communicated via voice *after* the alert is sent.
Related Questions
47G2 A DSC Urgency priority call is usually set up in the following manner:47G3 A DSC Safety call might be used under the following conditions:47G5 DSC Urgency priority calls may be sent using the “Distress Hot Key” under the following circumstances:47G6 A DSC Safety priority call might be used under the following circumstances:48G1 How are Routine calls usually formatted/initiated?