What is an EPIRB and its purpose?

• A. A handheld weather radio.
• B. A satellite phone used for regular calls.
• C. A distress signal that can be received by rescue authorities.
• D. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon; transmits distress signals to rescue authorities.

Answer: (D)

An EPIRB is an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon that, when activated in an emergency, automatically transmits a distress alert with your vessel’s location to rescue authorities. Modern EPIRBs send a signal on the 406 MHz satellite network, carrying a unique identifier tied to you or your boat and a GPS-derived position, so responders can quickly find you even if you can’t communicate. Some models also include a homing signal or a manual activation option, and many float free or auto-activate when in water. This specific function—providing an immediate, location-tagged distress alert to rescuers—is why it is the described device. The other options don’t fit because a weather radio only provides weather alerts, a satellite phone offers two-way voice communication, and a vague distress signal without automated location doesn’t reliably get rescuers to you in an emergency.