What should you do if you hear a distress call on Channel 16 or DSC 70?

When hearing a distress call on Channel 16 or DSC 70, the appropriate action is to proceed immediately to assist the vessel in distress, notify the Coast Guard, and inform the distressed vessel of your estimated time of arrival (ETA). This response is critical in a maritime emergency where lives may be at stake.

Channel 16 is the international distress frequency for voice communication, and DSC 70 is utilized for Digital Selective Calling, which is an automated distress signaling system. Responding to a distress call on these channels aligns with the established maritime protocols that prioritize safety and the preservation of life at sea. As a trained operator, it is your responsibility to provide assistance, relay important information to the authorities, and keep the distressed vessel informed of your actions and timing.

Ignoring the distress call, changing channels, or contacting a marina would not address the immediate needs of the vessel in distress and could potentially exacerbate a critical situation. Therefore, taking prompt and appropriate action can mean the difference between life and death in such circumstances.