What common safety equipment should be regularly tested alongside radio equipment?

Lifejackets and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) are critical components of safety equipment on board vessels that must be regularly tested to ensure functionality during emergencies. Lifejackets are essential for buoyancy and survival in the water, while EPIRBs play a crucial role in emergency positioning and alerting rescue services when activated.

Testing these items ensures that they are in good working order when needed. Regular inspection helps confirm that lifejackets are not damaged and that their buoyancy features are intact, while EPIRBs must be checked for battery life and functionality to ensure they will effectively communicate an emergency signal when activated.

In contrast, while flares and signaling mirrors, safety harnesses and ropes, and fire extinguishers are also important safety equipment, the specific focus on lifejackets and EPIRBs highlights their direct relationship with maritime safety during emergencies. Hence, emphasizing the importance of this combination of equipment underlines their role in preserving life and enhancing safety while at sea.