In what situation is a distress alert necessary?

A distress alert is necessary when a vessel is in immediate danger. This is a critical situation where the safety of the vessel, crew, or passengers is compromised, and immediate assistance is required. The distress alert acts as an urgent call for help, informing other vessels and maritime authorities of the dire circumstances.

Using a distress alert ensures that the situation is taken seriously and that resources are mobilized quickly, as timely intervention can be crucial in life-threatening scenarios. In contrast, routine checks, notifying authorities of changes in route, or even equipment malfunctions do not require a distress alert, as these situations do not imply an immediate threat to life or safety.