When you’re out on the water, safety should always be a top priority. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or someone who enjoys the occasional weekend boating trip, having the right safety equipment on board is essential.
One of the most important devices you can have is an Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon, commonly known as an EPIRB. This small device could be the key to your survival if you ever find yourself in a distressing situation at sea.
But what exactly is an EPIRB? How does it work?
And how long can you rely on it? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about EPIRBs in simple terms.
An EPIRB is a device designed to help rescuers find you if you’re in trouble on the water. EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, and it sends out a distress signal if your boat capsizes or you’re stranded far from shore.
This signal is picked up by satellites, which then pass the information to search and rescue authorities. These professionals can then use the signal to locate you quickly, even if you’re miles away from land.
In Australia, EPIRBs are required by law on many types of boats, especially those travelling more than two nautical miles offshore. They are a critical part of your safety gear because they work when other means of communication, like mobile phones or radios, might not.
When activated, an EPIRB sends a distress signal to satellites orbiting the Earth. This signal includes information about your location, making it easier for rescue teams to find you.
The device is designed to float, so even if your boat sinks, the EPIRB will stay on the surface and continue to transmit signals. Some EPIRBs are manually activated, meaning you have to turn them on yourself.
Others are equipped with a Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU), which automatically triggers the EPIRB if it gets submerged in water. This ensures that even if you can’t reach the device in an emergency, it will still send out a signal for help.
While an EPIRB is built to be durable, its ability to function properly over time depends on a few key components: the battery and the Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU).
The battery is the heart of the EPIRB. It powers the device and ensures it can send out distress signals when needed.
Generally, an EPIRB battery lasts between 5 to 10 years, depending on the model and manufacturer. However, it’s essential to regularly check the battery’s expiration date.
If the battery runs out, the EPIRB won’t work in an emergency, and that could be a life-threatening issue. Manufacturers usually place a sticker on the device indicating the battery’s expiration date.
Once the battery reaches the end of its life, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. Replacing the battery on time ensures that your EPIRB is always ready to function properly when you need it most.
The HRU is the mechanism that automatically releases the EPIRB from its mounting bracket when the device is submerged in water. This is a critical feature because it allows the EPIRB to float to the surface and start sending out distress signals, even if you can’t activate it manually.
The HRU has a shorter lifespan than the battery. It typically needs to be replaced every 2 years from the date of installation.
It’s important to keep track of when you install a new HRU because, like the battery, if the HRU isn’t functioning correctly, the EPIRB may not work when you need it. When you replace the HRU, make sure to mark the new expiration date on both the HRU and the outside label of the EPIRB’s mounting bracket.
This will help you keep track of when it needs to be replaced again.
You might be wondering why it’s necessary to replace the battery and HRU so frequently. The answer is simple: safety.
An EPIRB is a device that you may only use once in your lifetime, but when that moment comes, it needs to work perfectly. Regular maintenance, including timely replacement of the battery and HRU, ensures that your EPIRB is always ready to perform its life-saving function.
Neglecting to replace these components could mean that your EPIRB fails in an emergency, leaving you without a crucial safety net. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and safety on the water.
Maintaining your EPIRB is relatively easy, but it does require a bit of attention. Here are some simple steps you can follow to ensure your device is always ready:
Make it a habit to check the expiration dates of both the battery and the HRU. Write these dates down in a logbook or set reminders on your phone so you don’t forget.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Replace the battery and HRU before they expire to avoid any potential issues.
Regularly inspect the EPIRB for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks or corrosion. If you notice anything unusual, have the device checked by a professional.
Many EPIRBs come with a self-test feature. Use this feature periodically to ensure the device is working properly.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing.
Make sure your EPIRB is stored in its mounting bracket and is easily accessible in case of an emergency. Avoid storing it in a place where it could get damaged or lost.
An EPIRB is a vital piece of safety equipment for anyone spending time on the water. Knowing that help is just a signal away can give you peace of mind during your boating adventures.
To ensure your EPIRB works when you need it most, it’s important to maintain it by replacing the battery every 5 to 10 years and the HRU every 2 years. If you’re preparing for your skippers ticket Perth with Sea Safe Boat School, they’ll make sure you know how to properly care for your EPIRB and other essential safety gear.
Regular checks and proper maintenance of your safety equipment can make a big difference when it matters most. If you’re in WA and want to learn more about staying safe on the water, contact us for your skippers ticket today.
Make sure your EPIRB is up to date, and enjoy your time on the water with confidence! For more detailed information about EPIRB regulations and safety tips, visit the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) website.
Mike Watson, chef instructor of Sea Safe Boat School, has over 35 years of sea-going experience. Starting his maritime journey at 15 in Grimsby, England, he's sailed locations like Iceland and Greenland. Certified as a Master-5 Trainer, Mike is now dedicated to offering courses to those pursuing their recreational skippers ticket in Perth.
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