Recent inquiries by US Coast Guard Marine Inspectors indicated that a large number of vessel operators and ship masters continue to rely on outdated high seas communications frequencies when communicating with the US Coast Guard.
In view of this, USCG issued a Safety Alert, to remind all mariners of the appropriate use of Single Side Band High Frequency (SSB-HF) radios when attempting to contact the Coast Guard outside the normal range of Very High Frequency-Frequency Modulation (VHF-FM) marine radios.
First of all, USCG underlines that it has discontinued monitoring the SSB-HF frequency of 2182 KHz over four years ago; nevertheless, many mariners continue to attempt to contact the Coast Guard using this frequency.
In addition, many mariners attempt to contact the Coast Guard using their EPIRBs, cell phones, SAT phones, and even NOAA weather electronics, despite each of these communications devices has its own limitations and specific functional capabilities.
It is noted that SSB-HF radios equipped with digital selective calling (DSC) are capable of triggering an alert at Coast Guard Communications Command and are an especially reliable means for initiating communications with the Coast Guard during distress situations.
The Coast Guard keeps watch on the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) SSB-HF frequencies 4125, 6215, 8291 and 12,290 kHz in place of the old international radiotelephone distress frequency 2182 kHz.
The article on Safety4Sea about USCG high seas communications equipment provides essential insights for maritime safety. Understanding the various types of communication tools available, from satellite phones to high-frequency radios, is crucial for ensuring effective communication during emergencies. The detailed breakdown of each equipment type helps maritime professionals make informed decisions on what tools best suit their needs, enhancing overall safety and preparedness on the high seas.