What channel is the international hailing and distress frequency?

Prepare for the Deck General and Deck Safety Test. Study with multiple choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Ensure you're equipped with the essential knowledge to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

What channel is the international hailing and distress frequency?

Explanation:
Channel 16 is the international hailing and distress frequency for maritime VHF communications. It operates on 156.8 MHz and is watched by ships and coast stations worldwide so anyone in trouble or needing to make initial contact can reach out immediately. When you need to call another vessel or the coast guard, you hail on Channel 16 to establish contact, then switch to a working channel for the actual conversation. Channel 70 is reserved for DSC distress alerts rather than voice calls, and Channel 9 is not universally designated for distress—so Channel 16 is the one universally used for hailing and emergencies.

Channel 16 is the international hailing and distress frequency for maritime VHF communications. It operates on 156.8 MHz and is watched by ships and coast stations worldwide so anyone in trouble or needing to make initial contact can reach out immediately. When you need to call another vessel or the coast guard, you hail on Channel 16 to establish contact, then switch to a working channel for the actual conversation. Channel 70 is reserved for DSC distress alerts rather than voice calls, and Channel 9 is not universally designated for distress—so Channel 16 is the one universally used for hailing and emergencies.

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