Make the switch to a 406!

Boaters are reminded that from 1 February 2009, the 121.5 MHz distress beacon (or EPIRB) signal will no longer be detected by aircraft or satellite.

Each 406 MHz beacon – which is registered to an individual person and their craft - carries a unique identification code which is transmitted when the beacon is activated.

The unique code provides vital information about the registered boat and its owner – ensuring a faster and more effective search and rescue response appropriate to the vessel in trouble. The analogue beacon provided only a position to rescuers who may not know if it was a dinghy or a ship until establishing visual contact.

Unwanted beacons can now be disposed of at no cost by placing them in collection bins in any of the Battery World stores around Australia.

http://beacons.amsa.gov.au/