Coast Guard Test Coast Guard Communications

Question 1

What VHF-FM channel is designated as the primary distress, safety, and calling channel?

Accepted Answer

Channel 16

Answer

Channel 22A

Answer

Channel 9

Answer

Channel 12

Question 2

What does 'MAYDAY' mean and when should it be used?

Accepted Answer

It signals a life-threatening distress situation requiring immediate assistance

Answer

It signals an urgent situation that may become dangerous

Answer

It signals a safety message about navigation hazards

Answer

It signals a routine radio check

Question 3

What is the difference between a MAYDAY and a PAN-PAN call?

Accepted Answer

MAYDAY is for grave imminent danger; PAN-PAN is for urgent situations that are serious but not immediately life-threatening

Answer

MAYDAY is for vessel emergencies only; PAN-PAN is for medical emergencies

Answer

MAYDAY is used offshore; PAN-PAN is used inshore

Answer

There is no practical difference — both require immediate rescue

Question 4

What is SECURITE and when is it used?

Accepted Answer

A safety call used to broadcast navigational hazards or important weather warnings

Answer

A distress call for vessel sinkings

Answer

An urgency call for medical emergencies

Answer

A routine check-in call for all vessels

Question 5

What VHF channel is used for communications between vessels and Coast Guard Sectors in the US?

Accepted Answer

Channel 22A

Answer

Channel 16

Answer

Channel 9

Answer

Channel 6

Question 6

What is a Digital Selective Calling (DSC) controller used for?

Accepted Answer

To send automated distress signals with vessel identity and GPS position at the push of a button

Answer

To monitor weather broadcasts automatically

Answer

To control vessel navigation lights remotely

Answer

To automatically identify other vessels on radar