Display your V-sheet and if you see aircraft or other boats in the area, fire off an orange flare (day only) or red flare (more effective at night), or other distress signal.

As a last resort activate the EPIRB

My radio is working

Depending on the type of distress you are in transmit the MAYDAY, SECURITY or URGENCY message.

EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)

Use your EPIRB only when you are in distress. All other means of communication e.g. marine radio, mobile phone, signalling devices must be used before switching on an EPIRB.

First Aid

A knowledge of basic first aid procedures could help save a life in a boating emergency. This is particularly important for long boating trips to remote locations. The Australian Red Cross Society and St. John Ambulance Association run basic first aid courses.

Marine Incidents

Marine incidents resulting in injury or loss of life must be reported to a Police Officer within 48 hours and the appropriate form completed. All incidents causing material damage to boat or contents should be reported.

Until help arrives...

• Remain calm.
• Follow the directions of those answering your distress message
• Take all precautions necessary to ensure the safety of those persons on board.
• Determine what alternative action can be taken if help is delayed.
• Prepare for this action (don life jackets, prepare tenders/life rafts)
• Keep in radio contact with those coming to your aid and regularly update them with any changes to your situation.