🔍 Key Concepts

• GMDSS Sea Areas A2, A3, A4 and what additional equipment/watchkeeping each area requires • The purpose of MF-DSC on 2187.5 kHz in relation to VHF-DSC and satellite systems • Continuous watchkeeping requirements under GMDSS for ships at sea

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: What is 2187.5 kHz used for in GMDSS, and which ships must guard it? • Think about whether the requirement to keep a DSC watch on 2187.5 kHz is conditional on location (coverage areas) or on the ship being at sea and properly equipped. • Compare how the watchkeeping rule for 2187.5 kHz differs from a situation where a Rescue Coordination Center might give specific directions.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify what Sea Area A2 coverage is defined by (MF-DSC coast station range) and which distress frequency is used there. • Check GMDSS rules on continuous DSC watch: are they tied to equipment fit (A2/A3/A4) or to special orders from an authority? • Confirm whether the presence or absence of VHF-DSC or Inmarsat coverage changes the basic requirement to keep a watch on 2187.5 kHz for A2/A3/A4 ships.