The misuse of VHF radios for distress calling continues to be of concern for the US Coast Guard. Registering your radio equipment, and knowing the proper use Digital Selective Calling (DSC) feature is one of the most important aspects of boating. A DSC transmission includes the priority of the call (distress, urgency, safety, routine), who the call is being sent to (all ships or a specific ship/station), and the transmitting boat’s identity, location, and nature of distress.
Once a boat owner registers the vessel with the appropriate agency (FCC in the US), the boat’s emergency contact information is linked to the MMSI number, which is then programmed into the onboard electronics. When a distress call is broadcast, the MMSI is included in the message, giving rescue and emergency personnel accurate details of the boat.
The FCC and Coast Guard strongly encourage all boats to apply for an MMSI to enable DSC use in the case of an emergency.
Read more in this informative article found at Practical-Sailor.com
Additional information on VHF usage available at Semiahmoo Marina’s website.