Understanding the importance of VHF at sea
VHF (Very High Frequency) is an indispensable communication tool for yachtsmen. It can be used to contact other boats, emergency services, harbors and weather information. A good command of VHF can be vital in an emergency. It's important to use the right terms to avoid misinterpretation. For example, on a boat, the terms "starboard" and "port" are used to indicate right and left respectively.
International Phonetic Alphabet
To spell words or names correctly and avoid confusion, the international phonetic alphabet alphabet, in force since 1956, is used. This alphabet, standardized by the International Telecommunication Union, enables information to be transmitted clearly and precisely. For example, to spell "La Vida" we say "Lima Alfa Victor India Delta Alfa".
The basic rules of VHF communication
To use the VHF effectively, it is essential to know and follow certain basic rules:
- Use the appropriate channel channel 16 is the call and distress channel. For non-emergency communications, switch to a working channel after contact has been established.
- Enunciate clearly and slowly speaking clearly and at a moderate pace helps to ensure that the message is understood.
- Use standard format vHF communication follows a standard format to ensure clarity and efficiency. The called party is mentioned first, followed by the caller, separated by the word "de". This makes it clear who is sending and who is receiving the message. For example: "Name of the boat called, from Name of your boat, channel 16, speak."
The stages of a VHF call
To make a VHF call, follow these steps:
- Initial call use channel 16 to call the desired boat or station. For example: "Port de Marseille, from Voilier Aventure, channel 16, talk."
- Response and channel change once you have received the answer, suggest a change of channel to continue the conversation: "Voilier Aventure, de Port de Marseille, basculons sur le canal 72."
- Channel conversation on the new channel, keep your conversation concise and clear.
- Closing the call : To end a conversation, the sender must use the term "Terminé" or "over".
Emergency and safety messages
VHF is essential for reporting emergency situations. Here are the three main types of emergency messages:
- Mayday used for situations of grave and imminent danger requiring immediate assistance. For example: "Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, this is Voilier Aventure, in position 43°18'N 05°21'E, fire on board, request immediate assistance."
- Pan-Pan (pronounced pane-pane): For urgent but not immediately dangerous situations. For example: "Pan-Pan, Pan-Pan, Pan-Pan, this is Voilier Aventure, in position 43°18'N 05°21'E, engine failure, request towing."
- Security to broadcast important safety information, such as weather warnings. For example: "Safety, Safety, Safety, this is Voilier Aventure, gale warning for the area, take precautions."
Common mistakes to avoid
To ensure effective VHF communication, avoid these common mistakes:
- Excessive use of channel 16 : Reserve this channel for initial calls and emergencies.
- Speak too fast or too softly make sure your message is intelligible.
- Don't listen before you speak check that the channel is free before starting to transmit.
