False distress alerts can place unnecessary pressure on search and rescue services and undermine the effective operation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). IMO guidance highlights several practical measures that ship operators, masters and crews can take to prevent them.

GMDSS EPIRBs EPIRB Resolution Testing Global Maritime Distress Safety System Inmarsat Maritime Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons Digital Selective Calling Guidelines Administrations Adopted Make