Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Flashcards

When broadcasting a Pan-Pan urgency message on VHF radio, which channel should you use first?

Answer: Channel 16

Pan-Pan urgency calls, like Mayday distress calls, are first broadcast on Channel 16, the international distress and calling frequency.

During a pre-departure crew briefing, which item related to communication should always be covered?

Answer: The VHF radio location and how to call for help

A pre-departure safety briefing must include the location of the VHF radio and instructions on how to call for help in an emergency.

What does the phonetic alphabet word 'Oscar' represent in marine radio communication?

Answer: The letter O

In the NATO phonetic alphabet used in marine radio communication, 'Oscar' represents the letter O.

A skipper wants to obtain a weather update via VHF radio in U.S. coastal waters. Which source broadcasts continuous weather forecasts?

Answer: NOAA Weather Radio on WX channels

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts continuous marine weather forecasts on dedicated WX channels (WX1–WX7) throughout U.S. coastal waters.

When communicating your position to the Coast Guard, which format provides the most precise location information?

Answer: Latitude and longitude coordinates

Latitude and longitude coordinates provide an unambiguous, precise location that rescuers can immediately plot regardless of local knowledge.

What signal does a vessel make on the horn to indicate it is backing down (moving astern) in a U.S. inland waterway?

Answer: Three short blasts

Under U.S. Inland Rules, three short blasts on the horn signal that a vessel is operating astern propulsion.

When hailing another vessel on VHF Channel 16 to arrange a working channel, what should you do once contact is established?

Answer: Switch to an agreed working channel such as 68, 69, or 72

Channel 16 is for hailing and distress only; once contact is made, vessels should agree and switch to an open working channel to free Channel 16.