Tenby lifeboat in search for source of open transmission on channel 16

The volunteer crew were soon in area believed to be the source of the transmission and began a search using the Radio Direction Finder (DF) and radar.

Unable to detect the source, the crews of a local fishing boat and a buoy laying vessel were spoken to, with both boats being able to hear the transmission, but having checked their equipment, were sure it wasn’t them. Whilst awaiting further instructions from the Coastguard, the transmission stopped.

Channel 16 is the designated internation distress frequency and it is used for Mayday and other urgent communications, as well as making initial contact with the Coastguard. Having an open mic on this channel is a huge issue and means that the Coastguard would have been prevented from receiving any Mayday calls, which could end in disaster for any vessel trying to make one.

We recommend VHF radios are checked regularly to ensure they are in good working condition and do not have any buttons stuck down, to help prevent issues like this from happening.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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