Let’s not be ‘chit-chatting’ on channel 16
When using your VHF radio, you must remember that it isn’t the same as using a CB Radio. Enforcement of proper use can include hefty fines, especially for false distress calls. It is possible that you could cost someone else their life if you are chit-chatting on channel 16 preventing the Coast Guard from hearing someone else’s faint distress call – so always use channel 16 for meeting and then switch to a working channel to carry on your conversation. Those working channels could be channel 68, 69, 71, 72, or 78.
Keep in mind this summary of channels for normal operation…
Channel 22A (Twenty-two Alpha): Primary working channel for Coast Guard use. They use it to relay weather alerts, etc to the general boating public.
Channel 13: Navigation and piloting channel
Chanel 6 : Ship to ship frequency – safety related communications
Channel 16 : General meeting channel and monitoring channel