Channel 16 is used for what purpose on VHF-FM?

Channel 16 is used for what purpose on VHF-FM?

• A. Bridge-to-Bridge
• B. International calling and distress
• C. Weather data transmission
• D. Navigation safety alerts

Answer: (B)

Channel 16 is the international calling and distress frequency on VHF-FM. Mariners use it to hail another vessel or shore station and to initiate a distress call if help is needed. It’s the one channel that everyone at sea monitors, so a contact attempt or emergency message can reach the widest audience quickly. When contact is made on Channel 16, you switch to a working channel to continue the conversation, keeping Channel 16 free for hails and emergencies. Weather data and navigation safety information use different dedicated channels, not Channel 16.

Channel 16 is the international calling and distress frequency on VHF-FM. Mariners use it to hail another vessel or shore station and to initiate a distress call if help is needed. It’s the one channel that everyone at sea monitors, so a contact attempt or emergency message can reach the widest audience quickly. When contact is made on Channel 16, you switch to a working channel to continue the conversation, keeping Channel 16 free for hails and emergencies. Weather data and navigation safety information use different dedicated channels, not Channel 16.