RYA SRC VHF Radio Procedures

Question 1

What is the designated international distress, safety, and calling frequency for VHF marine radio?

Accepted Answer

Channel 16 (156.800 MHz)

Answer

Channel 16 (156.800 MHz) is the international distress, safety, and calling frequency. All vessels equipped with VHF must maintain a listening watch on this channel.

Question 2

What does the proword 'OVER' signify at the end of a VHF radio transmission?

Accepted Answer

The speaker has finished their message and is awaiting a reply

Answer

'OVER' indicates that the speaker has finished their transmission and is inviting the other station to reply. It signals the end of one party's turn to speak.

Question 3

Before transmitting on VHF, what should a radio operator always do first?

Accepted Answer

Listen on the intended channel to ensure it is clear and you will not interfere with other communications

Answer

Before transmitting, always listen on the intended channel to check it is not already in use. Transmitting over an existing communication is poor practice and potentially dangerous if it blocks a distress call.

Question 4

What is the correct way to make an initial call to another vessel on VHF?

Accepted Answer

State the name of the station being called (up to 3 times), followed by 'THIS IS' and your vessel name (up to 3 times), then 'OVER'

Answer

The correct format is: '[Station name] x3, THIS IS [Your vessel name] x3, OVER'. On a working channel, names need only be said once each.

Question 5

What does the proword 'OUT' signify?

Accepted Answer

The communication is ended and no reply is expected

Answer

'OUT' signifies that the communication has ended and no further reply is expected or required. 'OVER' and 'OUT' should never be used together.

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC Practice Test

RYA SRC VHF Radio Procedures