Communications equipment is an essential part of safe boating – because if you can’t contact someone to say you’re in trouble, nobody can rescue you.
You should carry at least two of the following at all times, so you can get help in the event of an emergency:
- hand-held VHF radio (Channel 16) – a hand-held waterproof radio will allow you to speak to anyone in the area who could help (as well as to rescue authorities) – hand-held VHF radios are recommended, because in the event of a capsize, a radio attached to the boat will not be accessible
- cellphone (call 111) – remember keep it on you and keep it dry! The problem with a cellphone (compared with a VHF radio) is that you can only ring one person at a time, and they will only work when dry
- red hand held flares – use red ones to signal for help
- EPIRBs – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons or EPIRBs are for maritime use and are designed to float in water. For more about 406 MHz distress beacons, visit the beacons website at www.beacons.org.nz
In addition, don’t forget some low-tech ways to help get attention:
- sound signals – use a horn or anything that makes noise
- torch – move or flash on and off or even signal SOS
- red flag
- arms – raising and lowering your arms is a recognised international distress signal.
More information and communications and free resources
Email: publications@maritimenz.govt.nz with your details to request any of the following:
- a cellphone bag – a ziplock bag to keep your cellphone dry
- Radio Handbook – all about VHF and SSB radios
- Safe Boating: an essential guide – booklet covering how to be safe on the water (seas, rivers or lakes)
- Safe Boating in New Zealand DVD – choose the topics you want to view – includes information on communications equipment (2 hours long)
- Tips about boating safety – a sticker with a quick summary of safe boating tips.
Safety bulletin - Issue 20: Dangerous use of mobile phones while a vessel is underway
Read online | Download [PDF: 40Kb, 2 pages]
To learn more about safe boating, check out the courses on the Coastguard Boating Education website, including information about their Marine VHF Radio course.
