From 1 July 2015 all boats involved in Category 3 racing must carry a GPS capable EPIRB
EPIRB Update
Yachting Australia issues Special Regulations for racing boats and recommendations for cruising boats.
From 1 July 2015 all boats involved in Category 3 racing must have GPS capable EPIRBs.
This Category applies to RSAYS Offshore races and the Adelaide to Port Lincoln Race.
When you are required to carry an EPIRB?
In South Australia, vessels are required to carry an emergency beacon if they are:
- recreational vessels more than five nautical miles from shore in Gulf of St Vincent or Spencer Gulf; or
- three nautical miles from shore in other State waters, except Lakes Alexandrina or Albert
When to use an EPIRB
An EPIRB should only be activated in situations where human life is in grave and imminent danger, and only after all other means of indicating distress, such as flares and radio, have been attempted.
Amazing Fact …
Globally, about 2000 people are rescued each year with the assistance of 406 MHz beacons.
The graphs below shows how important 406 MHz beacons have become. A GPS assisted beacon gives you the best chance of survival.
