EPIRBs – Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons
What is an EPIRB?
An EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) is a vital piece of safety equipment for any vessel. Designed to alert search and rescue services if you're in distress. When activated it sends a coded emergency signal on the 406 MHz distress frequency via satellite. Most modern EPIRBs also feature built-in GPS, allowing rescuers to pinpoint your position with greater accuracy.
How Does an EPIRB Work?
They can be manually activated or they can be automatically activated by a hydrostatic release if submerged. Once activated an EPIRB transmits a signal via satellites to search and rescue teams. It does this via the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. This global satellite network relays your distress signal to the nearest rescue coordination centre, drastically improving response times.
Some models also broadcast a secondary homing signal on 121.5 MHz. This frequency goes to helping rescue crews locate you once they’re nearby.
Who Needs an EPIRB?
If you sail far from shore, cross channels, or go beyond mobile signal range, it is highly recommended to carry an EPIRB. In many cases, it is required. They’re ideal for:
- Offshore yacht crews
- Solo sailors
- Powerboats travelling long distances
- Commercial and leisure craft operating beyond coastal waters
Choosing the Right EPIRB
At Force 4 Chandlery, we stock a range of Category I (auto-deploy) and Category II (manual) models. Choose from trusted brands like Ocean Signal, ACR and McMurdo. Look for features such as GPS positioning, float-free brackets, built-in strobe lights and return-link alerting (RLS) where available.
