Radio Procedures Flashcards

The phonetic alphabet word for the letter 'M' in the NATO alphabet used on marine VHF is:

Answer: Mike

The NATO phonetic alphabet is used on marine VHF to spell out vessel names, positions, and key information clearly. M = Mike.

What is the correct format for a Pan Pan urgency call?

Answer: PAN PAN × 3, ALL STATIONS × 3, vessel name, MMSI, position, nature of urgency, assistance required

Pan Pan (urgency) format mirrors Mayday (distress) but uses 'PAN PAN' instead of 'MAYDAY'. All elements: repetition × 3, all stations or specific coast station, vessel name/MMSI, position, urgency, persons on board.

A skipper wishes to call a marina on VHF. They should first call on:

Answer: Channel 16, then agree a working channel and switch

All vessels and shore stations maintain watch on Ch 16. Initial calls are made on Ch 16 to establish contact, then communication moves to an agreed working channel.

What does a DSC Urgency call transmit automatically?

Answer: MMSI of the transmitting vessel, position (if GPS-linked), and the nature of urgency

Like a DSC Distress call, a DSC Urgency call transmits the vessel's MMSI automatically, and if a GPS is connected, the position. This data reaches rescue centres even before any voice message.

A vessel receives a Securité message on Channel 16. This is:

Answer: A safety announcement regarding a navigational or meteorological hazard

Securité (pronounced 'say-cure-ee-tay') is the safety call prefix used to announce navigational or meteorological hazards — e.g., a drifting container, reduced visibility, or a traffic separation scheme update.

When a rescue helicopter is co-ordinating a search, mariners in the area should:

Answer: Maintain a listening watch on Channel 16 and follow instructions from the on-scene commander

During co-ordinated search and rescue operations, all vessels in the area must monitor Ch 16 and comply with instructions from the on-scene co-ordinator. Uncoordinated assistance can hamper the rescue.