RYA SRC DSC Procedures 4

Question 1

What must a DSC-equipped radio always display?

Accepted Answer

The vessel's MMSI number and current time

Answer

A properly programmed DSC radio must always display the vessel's MMSI number. It should also display the current time, especially when connected to GPS, for accurate distress alert timestamping.

Question 2

How is a DSC distress alert sent with nature of distress set to 'fire'?

Accepted Answer

Select 'fire' from the distress nature menu before confirming the alert

Answer

Modern DSC controllers allow the operator to select the nature of distress from a menu including fire, flooding, collision, etc., before confirming and sending the distress alert.

Question 3

What is the significance of the five-second hold on most DSC distress buttons?

Accepted Answer

It prevents accidental activation by requiring a deliberate press

Answer

Most DSC radios require the distress button to be held for approximately five seconds before the alert is transmitted. This safety measure prevents accidental activations that would trigger unnecessary SAR responses.

Question 4

Which DSC call category should be used when a vessel is taking on water but is not yet in immediate danger?

Accepted Answer

Urgency (PAN PAN)

Answer

If a vessel is taking on water but is not in immediate life-threatening danger, the urgency category (PAN PAN) is appropriate. MAYDAY is reserved for immediate grave danger to life.

Question 5

What information does a coast station typically request after acknowledging a DSC distress alert?

Accepted Answer

Vessel name, position, nature of distress, number of persons on board, and assistance required

Answer

After acknowledging a DSC alert, the coast station will request full details including vessel name, position, nature of distress, persons on board, and what assistance is needed to coordinate the appropriate SAR response.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC DSC Procedures 4