Communication and alerting equipment
Learn about registering an emergency beacon, radio requirements and Maritime Mobile Service Identity numbers.
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Register an emergency beacon
The following beacons must be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry:
- Emergency Locator Transmitters
- 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons
This makes it easier for search and rescue personnel to find you in the event of a distress situation.
To register an emergency beacon, visit the Canadian Beacon Registry.
Maritime Mobile Service Identity
Digital Selective Calling (DSC) radios have a unique 9-digit number that allow for private calling and simple MAYDAY alerting. This is called a Maritime Mobile Service Identity number, and acts like a cellphone number. To apply for an MMSI number, visit Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Radio
You must equip your vessel with a non-portable Very High Frequency (VHF) radiotelephone or a VHF-DSC radio. Radio requirements vary by vessel type.
To learn about radio requirements for your vessel, visit Transport Canada.
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