Emergency Signaling Devices (EPIRBs) are maritime safety devices used on ships and other watercraft to emit an emergency signal in the event of an emergency situation. These devices emit a radio signal via a 406 MHz frequency that is detected by Search and Rescue (SAR) satellites and by search and rescue shore stations.
The signal emitted by an EPIRB includes important information about the vessel's position, such as its GPS position, as well as a unique identification code that allows search and rescue teams to accurately identify the vessel in emergency.
EPIRBs are independent of the ship's power, as they have long-lasting batteries and automatic emergency charging, allowing them to continue to function even if the ship has capsized.
There are two types of EPIRBs: Category I EPIRBs and Category II EPIRBs. Category I EPIRBs are the most common and are used on commercial and recreational boats. These devices emit an emergency signal continuously and are detected by search and rescue satellites. Category II EPIRBs, on the other hand, are used on fishing boats and are manually activated. These devices emit an emergency signal only when activated, and are detected only by coastal search and rescue stations.
In short, EPIRBs are maritime safety devices used on ships and other vessels to emit an emergency signal in the event of an emergency situation, allowing search and rescue teams to locate and assist vessels in distress. These devices emit a radio signal through a frequency of 406 MHz and have long-lasting batteries and automatic charging.
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