How should vessels monitor for distress signals?

Keeping a radio tuned to emergency frequencies is essential for vessels to monitor for distress signals. The international maritime community has designated specific frequency channels, such as VHF Channel 16, for emergency communication. By staying tuned to these frequencies, vessel operators can hear distress calls from other ships, as well as any important updates related to safety or emergencies at sea. This proactive approach ensures that vessels are immediately alerted to any distress signals and can respond accordingly, which is a critical part of maritime safety and collaboration.

While visually scanning the horizon, listening for other vessels, and checking navigation logs may contribute to situational awareness, they do not provide a direct or comprehensive method for monitoring distress signals. Visual scanning may miss signals that are not within the line of sight, and auditory listening may only capture nearby vessels, which could miss distant calls for help. Navigation logs are primarily for tracking a vessel's own journey and do not serve a purpose in detecting distress from others. Therefore, maintaining a radio tuned to the right frequencies remains the most effective method for vessel operators to monitor distress signals.