If you receive a distress call on Channel 16 and you can assist?

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When you hear a distress call on Channel 16 and you can help, you should acknowledge it, move to a working channel if possible, and offer or provide assistance. Acknowledging the call confirms to the person in distress that someone is listening and ready to help, which can be life-saving. Switching to a working channel helps keep Channel 16 clear for others and for initial distress traffic, while you coordinate the response. On the working channel, identify yourself, obtain critical details (your vessel’s position, the nature of the distress, number of people aboard, and the type of assistance needed), and advise how you can assist or arrange for support. If you’re able to assist directly, provide the help or coordinate with other vessels or authorities as needed. Never ignore a distress call, and don’t relay to authorities on a separate channel without first contacting the caller and establishing communication.