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Safety |
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Safety
- Radio
VHF Radio
These
operate on a 'line of sight' principle, offering group protection
by allowing many boats in the area to listen to calls. In
distress situations or when a boat breaks down, VHF radio
is the most efficient means of communication. The only significant
limitation of VHF radio is that it will be useless if swamped
by a wave or if the boat's battery is underwater. Consider
taking a hand-held VHF that is waterproof or kept in a sealable
plastic bag. It can be used while still inside the bag.
If you are planning to use a cellphone as your only
means of communication, consider the advantages VHF has over
your cellphone;
- better coverage and fewer shadow areas;
- collective safety with both shore stations and other boats
listening. If you are in distress you want everyone possible
to know;
- batteries in a VHF are longer lasting;
- there is no need to remember phone numbers;
- you are not relying on just one person to pass on the
message.
These advantages work for everyone if all vessels keep a
constant listening watch on VHF Channel 16, the international
distress channel. However, a cellphone that is in a sealed
plastic bag and kept in your pocket may be a lifesaver if
you capsize suddenly, provided you are in an area where there
is coverage. Dial 111.
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| All operators of VHF radios
must hold an operator's qualification and need a call
sign. This qualification involves about three hours
tuition.
Every transmission must have a unique identification,
so you need a call sign. Contact Coastguard Boating
Education on 0800 40 80 90 for details on how to obtain
a VHF qualification and a call sign. Advise Coastguard
Boating Education if you are buying or selling a boat
equipped with VHF, or changing address.
If your boat capsizes or swamps, water will make the
VHF inoperable. Back up the VHF by carrying a cellphone
in a sealed plastic bag.
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Rules for Radio Use
- Listen before transmitting;
- don't make unnecessary calls and keep all calls as brief
as possible;
- don't allow children to play with the radio;
- always use the name of the boat you are calling first,
then identify yourself using your call sign and boat name;
- always ensure your microphone is correctly stowed to avoid
accidental transmissions which will lock up the channel;
- use Channel 16 for making your initial call, then move
to an agreed working channel;
- for emergencies, stay on Channel 16 unless you are directed
to another channel by Maritime NZ Maritime Radio or Coastguard;
- return to Channel 16 when you have completed a call;
- when making a distress call you are not required to have an
operator's qualification and call sign.
Nationwide, Maritime NZ Maritime Radio keeps a 24 hour listening
watch on Channel 16. There are also many volunteer Coastal
and Coastguard stations keeping a listening watch on Channel
16 and other channels locally. Some operate a 24 hour service.
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