RYA SRC MAYDAY & Distress Procedures 4

Question 1

What is the international distress frequency for VHF voice communications?

Accepted Answer

156.8 MHz (Channel 16)

Answer

Channel 16 operates on 156.8 MHz and is the internationally designated VHF distress, safety, and calling frequency. All SOLAS vessels and most recreational craft must maintain a continuous watch on this frequency.

Question 2

In a MAYDAY situation, what is the role of vessels NOT involved in the rescue?

Accepted Answer

Maintain radio silence on Channel 16 and stand by in case assistance is needed

Answer

Vessels not directly involved in a rescue must maintain radio silence on Channel 16, monitor the distress situation, and remain ready to assist if called upon by the coordinating authority.

Question 3

What does the term 'incident coordinator' mean in a MAYDAY situation?

Accepted Answer

The coast station managing and coordinating all SAR communications

Answer

The incident coordinator is the coast station (typically HM Coastguard in UK waters) that takes control of all radio communications and coordinates the SAR response to a MAYDAY.

Question 4

What is the correct format for giving a vessel's position in a MAYDAY message?

Accepted Answer

Latitude and longitude, or bearing and distance from a known landmark

Answer

Position in a MAYDAY should be given as latitude and longitude (e.g., 50 degrees 15 minutes North, 004 degrees 30 minutes West) or as a bearing and distance from a prominent known landmark.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a SART (Search and Rescue Transponder)?

Accepted Answer

It responds to radar signals from searching vessels and aircraft, creating a line of blips on their radar

Answer

A SART responds to X-band radar transmissions from searching vessels or aircraft, creating a distinctive line of 12 dots on the searching vessel's radar screen pointing towards the SART's location.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC MAYDAY & Distress Procedures 4