Which of the following statements about channel 16 is TRUE?

The statement that channel 16 is the international distress, safety, and calling frequency is true because channel 16 (156.800 MHz) is specifically designated for distress communication and emergency situations. It is the primary frequency used by vessels to call for help and by rescue agencies to receive alerts regarding emergencies at sea.

This channel serves as a crucial link for establishing communication between vessels and shore stations during distress situations, making it vital for safety at sea. Additionally, it is also used for hailing calls to establish communication with other vessels. Therefore, even though it is primarily a distress frequency, it facilitates initial contact and communication before switching to another channel for detailed discussions.

Using channel 16 for routine conversations is inappropriate, as it could interfere with emergency communications. Similarly, it is not exclusively for ship-to-ship communication, as shore stations can also use it, and it is monitored constantly for distress and safety issues, meaning it is not limited to emergency periods only.