How to Get Help in an Emergency

If you live on a boat, how do you get help in an emergency? The answer depends a little on where you are and on what type of emergency it is. But here are some general guidelines:

Ways to Call For Help

Do you know each of these methods for getting helping in an emergency?

Call Mayday on VHF 16

This will get help in almost all parts of the world, whether underway, anchored, in a marina, aground, or anything else. HOWEVER, Mayday is only to be used for a life-threatening situation.

Although it’s an emergency situation, try to talk slowly and calmly so that listeners can understand you. Give your boat name, location, and type of problem. Range is typically 12 – 20 miles, although up to 75 miles is possible if atmospheric conditions are just right.

And if you feel uncomfortable using your VHF, check out our course – VHF Radios: Everything You Need to Know.

Press the DISTRESS button on your VHF

This automatically transmits your boat name and position. But you must have previously programmed in your MMSI number and connected your VHF to your GPS/chartplotter if it does not have internal GPS. Range: typically 20 miles or further, particularly when being picked up by a Coast Guard station.

Call PAN-PAN on VHF 16

This method exists for serious but not immediately life-threatening situations.

Call 911 or Equivalent

If near shore, calling 911 (or the equivalent in other countries) can help. But the 911 operators do not always know how to get help to a boat. It’s best when in a marina, giving first responders access to your boat by shore.

Air Horn

Five blasts on an air horn will get the attention of nearby boats. It can be a great addition to a Mayday or Pan-Pan call on the VHF. This is good in case of a fire, medical emergency, dragging anchor, intruders, or any other situation where nearby boaters could help. Or if you want to warn them.

EPIRB

EPIRB is best for offshore or any time that you do not get a response to your VHF. Set it off in addition to the automated DISTRESS call and/or calling MAYDAY on VHF 16. There may be boats just out of sight that can hear you.

Hopefully you’ll never have to use this info . . . but it’s imperative to know!

Quick-Reference Cruising Guides
Quickly find anchorages, services, bridges, and more with our topic-focused, easy-to-use waterproof guides. Covering the ICW, Bahamas, Florida, and Chesapeake.
Explore All Guides

Loop Guide