Register PLB and EPIRB Locator Beacons

Coast Guard Issues Safety Alert Urging Beacon Registration

Jul 13, 2009

Providing current user information through the registration of PLB and EPIRB radio locator beacons increases their effectiveness to rescuers.

The growth in the use of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) by boaters is encouraging and the devices are proven to be lifesavers. Improvements to electronics technology have made these radio locator beacons both smaller and less expensive.

Required to be onboard commercial fishing vessels for many years, lower costs seen for this newer equipment have made the beacons more affordable for recreational boaters. To perform effectively, it is important for users to register their beacons.

Unique Identification Number (UIN)

Each EPIRB and PLB sold is programmed with a Unique Identification Number (UIN) that allows search and rescue (SAR) personnel to tailor their response to that particular beacon. Registration information maintained for each beacon includes a vessel description, owner information, and emergency contact numbers.

Correct registration data allows SAR personnel to contact a trusted source like a family member and secure addition information on vessel trip plans and who might be onboard the boat. Detailed vessel descriptions allow for positive identification of a vessel by rescuers at sea. Beacon registration information needs to be up to date and accurate for this feature to be useful.

The Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking (SARSAT) System

SARSAT utilizes a network of stationary and orbiting satellites to detect and locate signals coming from radio locator beacons. Newer 406 MHz technology allows EPIRBs and PLBs to be found much quicker than previously used beacons operating at 121.5/243.0 MHz frequencies. There are now beacons on the market that include a GPS receiver to provide the exact position of a vessel in distress. Beacons transmit their UIN to allow SAR personnel to access their registration information.

Registering an EPIRB or PLB

The U.S. National Beacon Registration Database is maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Officials recommend these steps be taken to register radio beacons:

The complete text of Marine Safety Alert 04-09 - EPIRB and PLB REGISTRATION, issued on July 13, 2009 can be viewed at the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Investigations and Analysis website.

The copyright of the article Register PLB and EPIRB Locator Beacons in Boat Safety & Maintenance is owned by Alan Sorum. Permission to republish Register PLB and EPIRB Locator Beacons in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.