EPIRB

An EPIRB is a distress beacon used in maritime emergencies to transmit a distress signal to rescue authorities. It is a key component of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and is designed to provide an automatic alert to search and rescue (SAR) operations when a vessel or individual is in danger.

Types of EPIRBs

⦁ Category I EPIRB (Auto-Release/Float-Free)

⦁ Automatically activates when submerged.

⦁ Required for commercial vessels and SOLAS ships.

⦁ Example: ACR GlobalFix V5, McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS.

⦁ Category II EPIRB (Manual Release)

⦁ Must be manually activated by crew members.

⦁ Suitable for small boats and personal vessels.

⦁ Example: Ocean Signal EPIRB1 Pro, Jotron Tron 60S.

⦁ AIS-Enabled EPIRBs

⦁ Uses AIS signals for enhanced tracking by nearby vessels.

⦁ Provides real-time position updates.

⦁ Example: ACR GlobalFix V5 AIS, McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS.

⦁ PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons)

⦁ Handheld distress beacons for individuals.

⦁ Used for hiking, boating, and remote travel.

⦁ Example: McMurdo FastFind 220, Ocean Signal RescueME PLB1.

Choosing the Right EPIRB

⦁ For Commercial Vessels (SOLAS-compliant):

⦁ Jotron Tron 60S, ACR GlobalFix V5, McMurdo SmartFind G8

⦁ For Recreational Boats/Yachts:

⦁ Ocean Signal EPIRB1 Pro, Kannad SafeLink EPIRB

⦁ For Offshore & Long Voyages:

⦁ McMurdo SmartFind E8, ACR GlobalFix iPro

⦁ For Personal Use & Small Boats:

⦁ McMurdo FastFind 220 PLB, Ocean Signal RescueME PLB1