In what situation should you use the recorded position from your DSC radio?

Using the recorded position from your DSC (Digital Selective Calling) radio is particularly relevant when your GPS fails. The DSC radio can capture and record your vessel's position based on either internal calculations or data received, which is crucial if your primary navigation system is compromised. In such scenarios, having access to this recorded information can help ensure that you maintain awareness of your location to navigate safely or to relay position information if assistance is needed.

While navigation purposes are important, it's not recommended to solely rely on DSC for routine navigation compared to dedicated navigation systems. The role of the DSC in emergency communications cannot be overlooked; however, its primary function during emergencies is to signal for assistance rather than to provide positional data. Regular maritime traffic reports also typically require more than just the recorded position; they may involve a range of information including course, speed, and intended destination in addition to the position. Therefore, in cases of GPS failure, the recorded position from the DSC radio serves as a vital backup to continue safe navigation or to communicate your exact location to others.