What should you do if you hear a "Mayday" transmission?

When you hear a "Mayday" transmission, it indicates an immediate danger to life or property, and it is essential to take action. The appropriate response is to proceed to assist the calling vessel. This is rooted in maritime law and best practices, which emphasize the importance of safety and the responsibility of vessels to render assistance whenever possible.

Responding to a "Mayday" call not only aligns with international maritime conventions but also reflects the duty of care that mariners have for one another. If you are in a position to aid the vessel in distress, your prompt action can potentially save lives and alleviate an emergency situation.

While monitoring the channel for further instruction is a good practice to ensure you're updated with any specific guidance from authorities, the primary obligation upon hearing a "Mayday" is to assist actively, as it shows solidarity within the maritime community and reinforces safety protocols. Thus, proceeding to assist the calling vessel is the correct course of action.