DSC Alert and Voice Mayday

Before sailing, verify that the vessel identity is correct and the radio displays a current position and time from its connected source, or follow the set's procedure for manual entry. A stale or missing position can delay location even though the DSC alarm itself transmits. Keep the vessel name, call sign, MMSI and a writable position prompt at the set.

In distress, use the protected distress control as the set instructs and press and hold until the alert is sent. If there is time and the equipment workflow permits, selecting an accurate nature-of-distress category can add useful digital information; do not delay the alert or choose an invented category while immediate action is required.

Do not rehearse by sending a live distress alert. Training must use a simulator or authorised training equipment. Real sets vary in menu, cover, hold time, acknowledgement display and self-cancel functions, so this revision page cannot replace hands-on practice with the actual set or the official practical SRC assessment.