EPIRB, SART & Emergency Equipment Flashcards

When you activate a SART, it begins to beep audibly. What does this beeping indicate?

Answer: The SART is being interrogated by a searching vessel's radar

The audible beeping of a SART confirms it is being interrogated by a radar signal from a searching vessel, indicating that rescuers are actively scanning the area.

How often should an EPIRB typically be serviced or have its battery replaced?

Answer: In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, typically every 2 years

EPIRBs must be serviced according to the manufacturer's schedule — typically every 2 years — to ensure the battery, hydrostatic release, and electronics remain serviceable.

Which satellite system receives and processes distress signals from 406 MHz EPIRBs?

Answer: COSPAS-SARSAT satellites

COSPAS-SARSAT is the international satellite system specifically designed to detect and relay distress signals from 406 MHz EPIRBs and PLBs to rescue co-ordination centres.

If your EPIRB is accidentally activated, what is the correct immediate action?

Answer: Turn it off immediately and contact HM Coastguard to cancel the alert and explain the false alarm

You must turn the EPIRB off immediately and contact HM Coastguard as soon as possible to cancel the alert, preventing unnecessary deployment of Search and Rescue resources.

What is the purpose of the hydrostatic release unit (HRU) fitted to a Category 1 EPIRB?

Answer: To automatically release and free the EPIRB from its bracket when submerged to 1–4 metres

The HRU automatically releases the EPIRB from its mounting bracket when submerged to between 1 and 4 metres, allowing it to float free and activate even if the crew cannot reach it.

Approximately how long after activation will a 406 MHz EPIRB fitted with GPS be detected by the COSPAS-SARSAT system?

Answer: Effectively immediately — position data is received almost instantly via Low Earth Orbit satellites

A GPS-equipped 406 MHz EPIRB transmits precise position immediately, and with COSPAS-SARSAT LEO satellites continuously overhead, alerts and position data are received near-instantaneously.

At what minimum height above sea level should a SART be held or mounted when activated to maximise its radar detection range?

Answer: 1 metre

A SART should be positioned at least 1 metre above sea level — the higher the better — to maximise the range at which a searching vessel's radar can detect it.