What is the international calling and...

🔍 Key Concepts

• VHF-FM (Very High Frequency – Frequency Modulation) marine radio uses standard internationally-agreed channels • Distress, safety, and calling channel used worldwide for initial contact and Mayday calls • Difference between calling/distress channels and working channels used for routine traffic

💭 Think About

• Which single VHF channel is reserved internationally for distress, safety, and calling, and is guarded by coast stations and most vessels? • Which channels listed are commonly used instead for port operations, commercial traffic, or recreational working channels rather than distress/calling? • On a typical VHF radio, which channel has a dedicated distress button or quick-access key associated with it?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option is the worldwide calling and distress channel, not just local use • Confirm that the correct channel is monitored continuously by most ships and coast guards • Eliminate channels that are normally working channels for fishing, recreation, or port operations rather than distress

What is the international calling and distress channel found on all VHF-FM equipped drilling rigs?

Channel 1

Channel 10

Channel 16

Channel 68