Emergency Medical Assistance on Open Water: Communication & Options

There are a few ways to get emergency medical assistance on open water.

1. Use a marine VHF radio. If you have a marine VHF radio, you can call for help on Channel 16. This is the international distress frequency, and it is monitored by the Coast Guard and other emergency services.

2. Use a satellite phone. If you have a satellite phone, you can call for help from anywhere in the world. Satellite phones are not as reliable as marine VHF radios, but they can be a lifesaver if you are out of range of a VHF signal.

3. Use flares. Flares are a visual distress signal that can be seen from a long distance. If you are in distress, you can fire a flare to attract attention.

4. Use a signal mirror. A signal mirror is a reflective surface that can be used to flash a distress signal. Signal mirrors are effective in daylight, but they are not as visible at night.

5. Use a personal locator beacon (PLB). A PLB is a small, portable device that can transmit your location to emergency services. PLBs are very reliable, and they can save your life if you are stranded on open water.