🔍 Key Concepts

• GMDSS DSC Distress Alert basic sequence of actions • Difference between Distress alert (digital/DSC) and Mayday voice call • Purpose of a dedicated Distress button / hot key on modern radios

💭 Think About

• In a real emergency, what is the fastest, most reliable way to automatically send your identity and position to many stations at once? • On many GMDSS radios, what specific control is reserved for true distress only and is designed to be used even by someone under heavy stress? • Think about what the recommended order of actions is: send the automatic alert first, or start with voice on Ch-16?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which control on a GMDSS VHF/MF/HF set is specifically labeled and protected for distress alerting only (often under a cover). • Check standard procedures in GMDSS manuals for initial distress action: which comes first, digital alert or voice Mayday? • Confirm whether selecting Ch-16 by menu is necessary before using the radio’s dedicated distress function.