VHF RADIO

The Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to operate a VHF radio fitted with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on any British vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio.

A radio is an important piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures.

Unnecessary transmissions could block out a Mayday distress call.

All new VHF sets are either fitted or can be interfaced, with DSC allowing calls to specific vessels. If you hold the ‘old’ VHF license (pre-1999) you need to upgrade your qualification if you purchase new equipment. This can be done by attending this course.

COURSE CONTENT

• The basics of radio operation

• The correct frequencies (channels) to be used

• Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures

• Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

• Search and Rescue (SART)

COURSE COST

£99 + £70 Exam Fee Payable to the RYA.

No previous experience need.

Minimum age 16

Instructor Ratio 1:12