Proper use of your VHF radio is crucial for safety and effective communication on the water. Unfortunately, many boaters never take the time to learn how to use this vital piece of equipment correctly. Whether you’re calling for help or just communicating for convenience, clarity is key. Here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts of VHF protocol.
Know Your Channels
Rule No. 1: Respect the channel designations, especially the “big three.”
- Channel 16: Reserved for distress and safety calls and initial contact calls to other vessels or shore stations.
- Channel 13: Used for vessel bridge-to-bridge communications, heavily trafficked by commercial ships for navigation.
- Channel 22A: Utilized for safety broadcasts and U.S. Coast Guard communications; after hailing on 16, you’re usually asked to switch to 22A.
Due to congestion on Channel 16, Channel 9 has been designated as an alternate contact-calling channel between pleasure vessels and shore stations. However, the Coast Guard typically doesn’t transmit safety messages on Channel 9. Always monitor Channel 16 in case a nearby boat needs help and to hear Coast Guard safety messages. Ideally, use two VHFs: one set on Channel 9 and another on Channel 16.
Conducting Radio Checks
Perform regular radio checks, but use Channel 09 for this, as requested by the U.S. Coast Guard. Authorities find it aggravating when recreational boaters request a “radio check” on Channel 16, an emergency channel. Instead, hail “TowBoatUS” on Channel 68 for a check.
Regular Conversations
For regular conversations, use non-commercial channels like 68, 69, 71, 72 and 78A. Channels 68 and 72 are commonly used by the recreational boating community. Remember, VHF is for “operational” purposes, which can include passing on a weather report but not discussing personal matters. Some channels, like 70, are restricted and cannot be used for voice communications.
When conversing, keep your communications brief and to the point. Extended conversations can inconvenience other boaters due to the limited number of appropriate channels. If communicating with a nearby boat (within a mile or two), switch to low power to limit the range of your broadcast and reduce interference with other boaters.
Emergency Signaling
In an emergency, structured communication is essential. Tune your radio to Channel 16, set the power to high and begin your broadcast with “mayday” or “pan-pan” three times. “Mayday” is for life-threatening situations, while “pan-pan” is for urgent, but not immediately life-threatening situations.
Provide the following information:
- Your vessel’s name
- Latitude and longitude
- A brief description of your boat
- The nature of your emergency
Speak slowly and clearly and wait for a response from the Coast Guard. They may ask follow-up questions about the size and type of your boat, the number and age of people on board, and whether anyone has medical training.
If you don’t get an answer, continue making the emergency broadcast. Authorities or nearby boaters may hear you even if you can’t hear them.
Ensure that your radio has Digital Selective Calling (DSC) activated, which requires a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number and a GPS link. Pressing the DSC “panic button” will automatically transmit your vessel information and exact location, boosting range and clarity.
If you haven’t activated DSC, refer to the article “Setting Up A VHF Radio With Digital Selective Calling” and visit the MMSI website to get an MMSI number and register your radio.
Think of VHF communications like public highways: they are for everyone’s use and benefit, but they can become clogged and unpleasant due to misuse. Follow proper VHF protocol to ensure a better and safer boating experience for everyone.
