SVOP Marine Communications and VHF Radio 2

Question 1

What does the safety signal 'SECURITE' (pronounced 'say-cure-ee-tay') indicate?

Accepted Answer

An announcement of an important navigational or meteorological warning

Answer

SECURITE is used to prefix announcements of important navigational or meteorological warnings, such as hazards to navigation or severe weather.

Question 2

On which VHF channel do boaters typically communicate with bridge tenders to request a bridge opening?

Accepted Answer

Channel 13

Answer

VHF Channel 13 is the designated bridge-to-bridge navigation channel used to communicate with bridge tenders, lock operators, and nearby vessels.

Question 3

How far in advance should a vessel send a MAYDAY relay if it receives a distress signal but does not hear a Coast Guard response?

Accepted Answer

Immediately after confirming no response for at least three minutes

Answer

If a vessel receives a distress message and the Coast Guard does not acknowledge within about three minutes, any vessel that can help must immediately relay the MAYDAY on Channel 16.

Question 4

What is the correct procedure when you want to cancel a DSC distress alert sent accidentally?

Accepted Answer

Immediately broadcast a voice message on Channel 16 stating the alert was sent in error and contact the Coast Guard

Answer

An accidental DSC alert must be immediately cancelled by transmitting a voice message on Channel 16 stating the alert was sent in error and contacting the Coast Guard to confirm no assistance is needed.

Question 5

Which document is required to legally operate a marine VHF radio in U.S. waters as a U.S. citizen?

Accepted Answer

No license is required for recreational boaters in U.S. waters

Answer

U.S. citizens operating VHF radios on recreational vessels in U.S. waters do not require an FCC license, though a Ship Station License is required when traveling to foreign ports.

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP Marine Communications and VHF Radio 2