Q&A for How to Call Mayday from a Marine Vessel

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  • Question
    After radio mayday has been called, who is in charge -- the vessel in distress or the coastal station?
    Aloha27
    Community Answer
    The coastal station is in charge of the call once it has been made by a vessel.
  • Question
    What is the other mayday call that is repeated 3 times?
    Community Answer
    There's more than one. There's is mayday, pan-pan, and a safety call called security.
  • Question
    How many times do I say Mayday?
    Community Answer
    When you start the call, you say it three times. This ensures it is heard. Once you have given your callsign and MMSI, you then say Mayday and your vessel name again before you give your position and any other information you have.
  • Question
    When do I stop the sending the distress signal?
    Tom De Backer
    Top Answerer
    As soon as the distress situation has ended. Keep sending it until you are either rescued, the danger has gone away or the device is no longer operational. If you're sinking and can't keep your boat afloat, start sending the signal. When help arrives, stop sending. Should you manage to close the hole, stop sending, but contact the emergency services to explain your situation. They might still come check you out regardless. If the boat sinks before help arrives, the device may stop sending by itself.
  • Question
    What should I do if the radio is underwater?
    Aasim
    Top Answerer
    Many two-way radios are weatherproof and can take a bit of water without problems. Even non-water-resistant radios can continue to function after getting dunked in seawater, so you might be able to get some use out of it before it dies.
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