Do YOU know how to look after yours?
While your EPIRB can save your life, it can also let you down very easily if it’s not looked after properly. While they are robust there are limitations to just how robust they are!
In this issue we’re going to guide you through how to look after your EPIRB to ensure it can help in saving your life.
Why register your EPIRB? Apart from being law it provides the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) with the vessels location and other relevant details in the event it is activated including:
All of these are critical if your EPIRB is activated and you need rescuing! It’s also vital to keep your details up to date. You can register or update your details by going to www.beacons.amsa.gov.au
EPIRBs should be stored in there mounting bracket where it is visible and easy to access in an emergency.
Like your mobile phone, keep your EPIRB dry, Float Free EPIRBs are stored in a special water tight container. It’s important to keep EPIRBs away from:
DO NOT store EPIRBs in high temperatures or in areas where they are subjected to continual water spray.
EPIRB batteries last for approximately 5-10 years (depending on make and model) so it’s important to consider your options to ensure your EPIRB will transmit properly in an emergency. You have 2 options:
Check here for authorised servicing options Servicing – Beacons
Note: If your EPIRBs battery was replaced or serviced by a non-certified service centre then the beacon is non-compliant for carriage requirements and there is a risk the beacon may not function correctly.
If you have used your EPIRB in a distress situation, contact the manufacturer or a certified servicing agent to replace the beacon battery and discuss your servicing options. This is because the battery may be depleted, and the beacon may have been damaged during use. Therefore, the beacon will not be guaranteed to function correctly in another emergency situation.
Ensure your EPIRB is correctly mounted in a highly visible, dry location and that every crew member knows where it is and how to activate it if necessary.
Ensure Float Free EPIRBs are mounted in a location that is out of the way of fishing assemblies, rigging and other equipment that may impact on its ability to float free. Also ensure it is out of the way of moving equipment and/or wires/lines.
Every beacon has a self-test switch. Please ensure you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to perform a self-test and how often. Some manufacturers recommend that you self-test the beacon periodically, either once a month, or prior to a planned trip.
Note: Over testing can drain the battery.