mariner using radio on boat — *Generated by DaVinci (2026)*

Using Your Radio

Your marine radio should always be turned on and tuned to VHF Channel 16.

woman on boat using radio — *Generated by DaVinci (2026)*

Basic Radio Procedure

Correct radio procedure can save lives.

Poor radio procedure not only annoys other people but can obstruct search and rescue operations in extreme cases. Good radio procedure may save your life and vessel, or someone else's life and vessel, some day.

vessel in distress — *Generated by DaVinci (2026)*

When Trouble Strikes

What to do if you find yourself in distress.

Radio procedures provide for two calls to use when trouble strikes: Mayday and Pan Pan. These are are used at sea and in the air. The procedures are similar but you need to know which one to use in which

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providing help to disabled vessel — *Generated by DaVinci (2026)*

Helping Others

How to help someone else in distress.

Vessel owners are required to assist other vessels in distress if they can do so. This section shows how you should respond to a Mayday or Pan Pan, and how to send Securité safety messages.

Radio FAQs

More questions?

This section answers some common questions about installing and using your marine radio.