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Part 5 of 5
If you get into trouble, an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) could save your life by enabling you to alert rescue authorities and indicate your location.
The 406 MHz EPIRB was designed to operate with satellites, and its 406 MHz signal frequency has been designated internationally for use only for distress. Other communications and interference are not allowed on this frequency. With 406 MHz beacons, false alerts have been reduced significantly, enabling actual alerts to receive the attention they deserve.
The EPIRB signal allows a satellite local user terminal to accurately locate the may day and identify the vessel as the signal is encoded with the vessel’s identity. There is no range limitation. Polar orbiting and weather satellites send rescue authorities an instant alert. However, location information is not communicated unless the EPIRB is equipped with an integral GPS receiver, which will send accurate location as well as identification information to rescue authorities immediately on activation through both weather and polar orbiting satellites.
These types of EPIRBs cost between $200 and $1,500, an investment experts agree is well worth making. Between 2003 and 2007, the U.S. Coast Guard reports that the 406 MHz beacons have directly contributed to the saving of 1,224 lives for both air and sea rescue in the United States.
The 406 MHz EPIRBs use a special type of lithium battery designed for long-term, low-power consumption operation. You must replace the battery by the date indicated on the EPIRB label using the model specified by the manufacturer and purchased at a dealer approved by the manufacturer. If the replacement battery is not the proper type, the EPIRB will not operate for the duration specified in a distress.
The Federal Communications Commission requires that you register your 406 MHz EPIRB, a regulation that the Coast Guard is enforcing. You can include and update important information anytime, adding any identifying information that will make it easier for rescuers to find you.
To learn more about EPIRB, visit the Navigation Center of Homeland Security.
The opinions and positions expressed are the authors’ own and not those of Chubb. The information and/ or data provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Insurance coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued.