Communications and Log Keeping

SAR Crew Manual Chapter 4

2008

VHF Radio

VHF Radio Use

• Rescue vessel communications link to SAR system

• Once logged on, vessel must maintain watch at all times on designated channel

• Rescue vessel must log off on return to base

VHF Radio Use

• Must maintain watch on Ch 16 at all times when under way

• All communications must be professional, as everyone can hear what is being said

• Use Scan feature to monitor working channels, e.g. 04A, 12, 16 and 83A

Fixed VHF Radio

• Higher power (25 Watts max.)• Higher antennae• Must be set up / continually adjusted for proper use• Other Features:

– PA system– Fog signals

Special FunctionsVolume

Squelch

Channel

Transmit Power

Wx

Distress

Hand Held Radio

Squelch

PTT

Volume

Channel

Hand Held Radio

• Portable Communications • Limited Battery Life• Lower Transmit Power (5 Watts Max)• Mainly for Crew and Rescue vessel communications

Rules for Communication• All transmissions to other vessel or JRCC must be

made through the coxswain– Search coordination, information processing, log

keeping• BASS

– Brevity– Accuracy– Speed– Secrecy

Crew Communications

• Whenever crew are off the rescue vessel, a watch must be maintained on Ch 62A

• Crew to complete a communications check before disembarking the rescue vessel during a mission

• All communications from handheld go only to own rescue vessel

Electronic Emergency Signaling

EPIRB DSC Distress

COPSAS SARSAT

Log Keeping