Raising the alarm (calling for help)
There are various ways of calling for help and it is important to be familiar with the features and what is involved in using all the options.
Emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB)
The MSA requires that all recreational vessels venturing more than two nautical miles (nm) from the coast carry a registered, current EPIRB. Although EPIRBs are only required when venturing more than 2 nm from the coast, EPIRBS can be useful for raising the alarm on any waterway.
An EPIRB is waterproof, will float upright for best signal transmission and has a lanyard to attach it to yourself or a floating object. It is also advisable to purchase a model of EPIRB which features a strobe light and GPS enhancement to provide searchers with a smaller search area.
Once activated, an EPIRB transmits a distress signal for at least 48 hours that can be detected by satellite and overflying aircraft. EPIRB alerts detected off Victoria are received by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) in Canberra and relayed to the local rescue co-ordination centre.
The EPIRB should be accessible but stowed in a way to avoid accidental activation.
Check the battery and registration expiry date on your EPIRB before taking out your vessel. When testing an EPIRB, strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Compulsory registration of your EPIRB is free. Visit beacons.amsa.gov.au or call 1800 406 406. Registration details must be updated when any of your registered details change, or every two years. Analogue 121.5MHz beacons are no longer acceptable for use in the maritime environment.
Personal locator beacon (PLB)
A PLB is smaller and more convenient to carry than an EPIRB. A PLB may not float in an orientation that provides good signal transmission. It may not have a lanyard and is required to operate for only 24 hours. A PLB is not an EPIRB and does not meet the legislative requirements for the carriage of EPIRBs. However, MSV recommends that a PLB is worn by all boaters who are boating alone.
Beacon disposal
Please do not throw unwanted beacons in the bin – they can inadvertently activate if incorrectly disposed of in the rubbish.
To dispose of unwanted distress beacons (EPIRBs and PLBs):
Option 1.
Contact your local battery store to check whether they can disconnect and dispose of beacons. A small fee may apply.
Option 2.
Check the beacon manufacturer’s instructions. They may provide instructions on how to disconnect the beacon battery and how to correctly dispose of the beacon and battery.
After disposing of your unwanted beacon please advise AMSA by updating your online registration account at beacons.amsa.gov.au or phoning 1800 406 406.
Marine radio
A marine radio is:
- A radio operating on VHF marine radio channels
- A radio operating on MF/ HF marine radio frequencies
Marine radios provide a means of:
- calling for assistance if a vessel is in distress
- monitoring and/or updating rescue operations
- positioning a vessel by radio direction finding
- receiving weather forecasts
- communications between vessels
Marine Radio Victoria replaces Coast Radio Melbourne and provides a marine distress and emergency monitoring system for Victorian Coastal waters. Marine Radio Victoria uses a new VHF coastal network completed in 2017.
Radio calls are monitored and recorded 24/7 along the entire Victorian coastline to 20 nm from the coast. Operators are also able to check weather conditions and conduct radio checks through Marine Radio Victoria.
Some Marine Search and Rescue agencies provide track following services along the coast on VHF channels.
MF/HF radio for longer range communications is based in Charleville. Charleville Radio (VMC) monitors HF distress channels 24/7 and provides weather information services.
Marine radio channels
| Radio | Channel/Frequencies |
|---|---|
| VHF | 16 (67 alternative) |
| HF (frequency) | 4125,6215 and 8291 kHz |
27 MHz radios no longer meet the definition of marine radios.
Its broadcasting and reception is not as reliable as VHF and it is not consistently monitored along the Victorian coastline.
Marine radios must be ACMA-approved VHF radios.
For emergency radio use and messages see chapter 3 about emergency procedures.
VHF Radio
A marine radio is required on most vessels when venturing further than 2 nm from the coast.
Refer to safety equipment tables to understand when a marine radio is required.
The Marine Radio Operator’s Handbook, available through the Australian Maritime College at amc.edu.au/industry/omc, provides information on correct operating procedures, maintenance of equipment and how to deal with minor faults at sea. The person operating the marine transceiver must hold an appropriate qualification.
Marine radio operator certification
An operator’s certificate is required to transmit using VHF and HF radio.
Qualifications and The Marine Radio Operator’s Handbook are available through the Australian Maritime College at amc.edu.au/industry/omc.
MF/HF radio sets require an apparatus licence administered by ACMA.
For further information about marine radio requirements, including any changing requirements, please visit the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) website: acma.gov.au
Flares
Always delay using flares until you can see an aircraft, or until people on shore or in other boats are in visual range.
• Keep flares away from fuel and combustibles.
• Ensure flares are stored in an accessible but dry place, as they attract moisture.
• Be prepared – ensure everyone on board your vessel knows where the flares are stored and how to use them.
• Ensure that you carefully follow the activation instructions of all flares.
Expired flares
Approved smoke signals, distress flares and parachutes have expiry dates clearly marked. Expired flares should not be carried on your vessel. Flares can become dangerous and unpredictable as they age. Their life span is usually three years and you must ensure they are replaced when the expiry date is reached.
Boat owners should dispose of their expired flares at selected police stations. Contact your local police station for specific locations.