Communication Procedures Flashcards

What does the term 'MAYDAY' indicate in marine radio communication?

Answer: Life-threatening distress requiring immediate assistance

MAYDAY is the international distress signal used when a vessel or person is in grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance.

After completing a working channel conversation, where should you return your radio?

Answer: Channel 16

Vessels must return to and monitor Channel 16 after finishing communications on a working channel.

What does 'PAN-PAN' signify in maritime radio communication?

Answer: Urgency signal for a situation needing prompt help but not immediate danger

PAN-PAN (pronounced 'pahn-pahn') is an urgency signal used when a vessel has a serious situation that requires prompt assistance but is not immediately life-threatening.

How many times do you repeat your vessel name when first calling another station?

Answer: Three times

Standard radio procedure requires you to state your vessel name three times when making initial contact to ensure it is heard clearly.

What VHF channel should recreational boaters in the US use to contact the Coast Guard after an initial call on Channel 16?

Answer: Channel 22A

The US Coast Guard typically works on Channel 22A after initial contact is established on Channel 16.

What does 'Roger' mean in radio communication?

Answer: Message received and understood

'Roger' confirms that the last transmission was received and understood, but does not imply compliance.

Which signal tells vessels approaching from the opposite direction that a bend or obstruction lies ahead?

Answer: One prolonged blast

One prolonged blast warns other vessels of your presence when approaching a bend, obstruction, or area of limited visibility.