What are the most useful GMDSS radio communication skills and techniques?

1 Know the frequencies

Different types of radio communication use different frequency bands, such as MF, HF and VHF. Each band has its own advantages and limitations, depending on the distance, propagation, interference and availability of the radio signals. You need to know which frequencies to use for different purposes and situations, such as distress, calling, working, digital selective calling (DSC) and NAVTEX. You also need to know how to switch between frequencies and modes, such as simplex, duplex and semi-duplex.

2 Follow the procedures

GMDSS radio communication follows standardized procedures and formats, such as the International Code of Signals, the International Phonetic Alphabet and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) regulations. You need to follow these procedures and formats to ensure clarity, accuracy and consistency of the radio messages. You also need to follow the priority and etiquette rules, such as giving way to distress, urgency and safety messages, identifying yourself and the station you are calling, and ending the transmission with "over" or "out".

3 Use the equipment properly

GMDSS radio equipment includes various devices and systems, such as VHF radios, MF/HF radios, DSC controllers, NAVTEX receivers, EPIRBs, SARTs and INMARSAT terminals. You need to use the equipment properly, according to the manufacturer's instructions and the operational requirements. You also need to test the equipment regularly, such as performing radio checks, battery checks, antenna checks and self-tests. You need to report any faults or malfunctions to the appropriate authority and keep a log of the radio activities.

4 Practice the skills

GMDSS radio communication skills and techniques require practice and training to become proficient and confident. You need to practice the skills in various scenarios and situations, such as simulated distress, urgency and safety messages, routine calls and replies, DSC alerts and acknowledgements, and NAVTEX broadcasts. You also need to practice the skills with different types of equipment and frequencies, such as VHF radios, MF/HF radios, DSC controllers and INMARSAT terminals. You need to review the procedures and formats regularly and update your knowledge on the latest regulations and changes.

5 Communicate effectively

GMDSS radio communication is not only about technical skills and techniques, but also about effective communication. You need to communicate effectively with other stations, such as coast stations, rescue coordination centers, other ships and aircraft. You need to use clear and concise language, avoid slang and jargon, confirm and repeat important information, ask and answer questions, and provide feedback and acknowledgement. You also need to communicate effectively with your own crew, such as informing them of the radio activities, coordinating the actions and responses, and reporting the outcomes and results.

6 Stay alert and prepared

GMDSS radio communication is a vital part of maritime safety and security. You need to stay alert and prepared for any emergency or situation that may require radio communication. You need to monitor the frequencies and channels regularly, such as the distress and safety frequencies, the calling and working frequencies, and the NAVTEX broadcasts. You also need to prepare the equipment and documents, such as the radio licenses, the ship's particulars, the position and course, and the distress message format. You need to be ready to send and receive radio messages at any time and in any condition.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?