Module 6 - Distress & Mayday
False Distress Alert Cancellation
ITU Resolution 349 (Rev.WRC-23) says to follow the radio-screen instructions where applicable, or switch off and on after ten seconds and then follow the screen instructions where applicable. If the DSC equipment can transmit a distress self-cancel, start that operation according to the current equipment procedure. Do not stop at resetting the set.
Set Channel 16 and transmit a broadcast to ALL STATIONS. Give ALL STATIONS three times, THIS IS, the vessel name three times, call sign or other identification, MMSI, and the words PLEASE CANCEL MY DISTRESS ALERT OF followed by the alert time in UTC. Keep listening and answer any Coastguard or station response.
Use additional appropriate means to tell the responsible authority that the alert was false and has been cancelled. Report promptly and honestly. The ITU resolution says no action will normally be taken for reporting and cancelling, while repeated violations may attract action because false alerts consume rescue resources and can obstruct real distress traffic.
| Step | Action | Failure prevented |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Follow the display, or reset after ten seconds as the current procedure specifies | Leaves the set ready to show applicable cancellation instructions |
| 2 | Use distress self-cancel if the equipment supports it | Cancels through the DSC capability where available |
| 3 | Select Channel 16 | Moves to the VHF distress voice channel |
| 4 | Broadcast vessel name, call sign, MMSI and UTC alert time to ALL STATIONS | Lets listeners match the cancellation to the false alert |
| 5 | Use additional appropriate contact and maintain the watch | Confirms the responsible authority has the corrected status |
Optional quick check
Section 10 of 10
Which information uniquely anchors the voice cancellation?
Sources and factual review
Reviewed 20 August 2026 - Compass Revision editorial review.
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