🔍 Key Concepts

• VHF Channel designations used for different purposes (bridge-to-bridge, calling, safety, port ops, etc.) • The specific channel reserved internationally for distress, safety, and calling • Difference between channels used to initiate contact versus channels used to continue working communications (e.g., with the Coast Guard)

💭 Think About

• Which channel number do you most often hear associated with MAYDAY and PAN-PAN calls on a VHF radio? • Which of these channels is designated worldwide so that all vessels monitor it for emergencies, not just in harbors or for bridge-to-bridge traffic? • Think about what channel the Coast Guard and most authorities tell small boats to "monitor at all times" for distress and safety calls.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which VHF channel is labeled as Distress, Safety & Calling in a standard VHF marine radio manual or channel list. • Confirm that the channel you choose is monitored continuously by the Coast Guard and other rescue authorities. • Eliminate channels that are primarily for bridge-to-bridge, port operations, or working communications rather than initial distress and calling.