Communication & Documentation Flashcards

What is the correct VHF radio procedure when you finish speaking and expect a reply?

Answer: Say 'Over'

'Over' means you have finished transmitting and are awaiting a reply from the other station.

Under the Navigation Rules, what sound signal should a power-driven vessel underway in restricted visibility give?

Answer: One prolonged blast every 2 minutes

A power-driven vessel underway in restricted visibility must sound one prolonged blast at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

Which document must be carried aboard a documented vessel at all times?

Answer: The Certificate of Documentation

Federally documented vessels must carry the Certificate of Documentation aboard at all times as proof of registration and nationality.

What does 'Pan-Pan' (pronounced pahn-pahn) signify in marine radio communication?

Answer: An urgent safety message about a person overboard

Pan-Pan is an urgency signal indicating a very urgent message concerning the safety of a ship or person, but not as immediately life-threatening as MAYDAY.

What is the primary purpose of DSC (Digital Selective Calling) on a VHF radio?

Answer: To automatically send a distress signal with GPS position to rescuers

DSC allows a boater to send an automated digital distress alert containing the vessel's MMSI number and, if connected to GPS, its exact position.

What is an MMSI number and where is it used?

Answer: A unique 9-digit identifier for a vessel used with DSC radio

A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a unique 9-digit number assigned to a vessel that is transmitted with DSC distress calls to identify the boat.

Which type of radio signal is transmitted on VHF Channel 16 by NOAA and the Coast Guard as a navigational warning?

Answer: SECURITE (pronounced say-cure-ee-tay)

SECURITE is the safety signal used to broadcast navigational hazards, weather warnings, and other safety-related information to mariners.