RYA SRC EPIRB, SART & Emergency Equipment 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

The battery is running low and needs replacing soon

Answer

The SART has developed a fault and may not be functioning correctly

Answer

It has automatically switched to a standby frequency

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Every 6 months

Answer

Every year

Answer

Every 5 years regardless of manufacturer guidance

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

COSPAS-SARSAT satellites

Answer

GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites

Answer

INMARSAT geostationary satellites

Answer

GALILEO navigation satellites

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Do nothing — accidental activations are expected and not treated seriously

Answer

Wait to see whether rescue services respond before deciding whether to cancel

Answer

Only notify the Coastguard if rescue craft are already on their way

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

To measure the depth of water around the vessel

Answer

To prevent accidental activation in heavy rain or spray

Answer

To test the battery level of the EPIRB before use

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Within 30–90 minutes depending on satellite coverage

Answer

Within 3–6 hours when a satellite pass occurs

Answer

Within 12–24 hours for the full position fix

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

1 metre

Answer

0.5 metres

Answer

3 metres

Answer

5 metres