AUTOMATED MAYDAY SYSTEMS

Alert rescuers automatically when catastrophe strikes.

In a marine emergency, you might not have the time or composure to place an effective mayday call. Your electronics might not work either.

Automated emergency broadcasting devices can alert rescuers and help them find you.

HOT BUTTON

VHF handheld models such as Icom’s floating M93D ($249.95, thegpsstore.com) offer digital selective calling (DSC) and GPS. Press the red distress button to broadcast an alert with your position and boat description. You need to obtain and enter a maritime mobile service identity ahead of time. Effective range: 4 to 5 miles.

GLOBAL REACH

An emergency positionindicating radio beacon (EPIRB) such as the ACR GlobalFix V4 ($394.95, the gpsstore.com) uplinks your position to satellites and alerts rescuers. It also broadcasts a homing signal to pinpoint the device’s position. EPIRBs broadcast for a minimum of 48 hours after deployment. Effective range: worldwide.

PERSONAL BEST

Personal locator beacons (PLBs) such as the Ocean Signal RescueMe ($267.99, wholesalemarine.com) use the same system as EPIRBs but are worn. Battery life is half that of an EPIRB. Effective range: worldwide.

GOING OVERBOARD

Man-overboard (MOB) devices use the automatic identification system (AIS) to locate a man overboard. McMurdo’s Smartfind S20 SRS AIS ($189.95, thegpsstore.com) attaches to a life jacket and transmits position data to AIS receivers in range for 24 hours. They allow AIS-equipped vessels to join the search. Effective range: 4 to 5 miles.