Why do people talk so funny on their marine radio???
Monday, June 7, 2010
They may not be talking funny at all – they may be following the “proper operating procedure” for using their marine radio. Their are 6 basic operating rules that should be followed for proper use of your VHF Marine Radio. These include…
- Listening for 2 minutes before transmitting
- Using Channel 16 only to establish communication (if necessary) and then switch to a different channel
- Using a set of international “calling” procedures such as the “Mayday” distress call, the “Pan-pan” urgency call and “securit’e'” navigational hazard call
- Using “Pro-words” based on the English language
- Using the NATO phonetic alphabet
- Using a phonetic numbering system based on the English language
I’ll try to address these items in more detail on subsequent blogs to clarify what they mean. These items are mainly for use of the VHF marine radio an the handheld VHF Marine Radio. Enjoy your day on the water and be safe! Happy Boater.