Radio Procedures

Our call sign is 'VMR 274 Brunswick' and we undertake a continual watch on the channels 88 on the 27 MHz band & 16 on VHF. When calling VMR 274 Brunswick on the initial calling and emergency channels the radio operator will usually request you to go to another channel to communicate. This is to ensure that these channels are kept free in case of emergencies. The operator will usually select the channels of 27Meg 90 and VHF 73. Vessels can also initiate a call on these channels.

If you are not using your radio, it is important to keep it turned on for warnings and emergencies, and should be tuned in to 27Mhz channel 88 or VHF channel 16. If your radio has scanning or dual watch capabilities you can also listen on other channels.

Please note that at peak times and in emergencies there may be more than one communication happening on a number of radios. You may be requested to standby for a short time. Please do not transmit until advised to do so.

If you have any questions or queries on radio procedures, please don't hesitate to contact the Marine Radio Base for assistance.

Guidelines for Proper Radio Procedures

Calling VMR274 Brunswick

• VMR274 Brunswick, VMR274 Brunswick, VMR274 Brunswick
• This is.....
• Your call sign, your call sign, your call sign (or your boat's name three times)
• Over
• At the completion of call say 'out'

General

• Only transmit if you have something important to say.
• Always listen before you transmit to ensure you do not override another transmission
• Think of what you are going to say before you transmit.
• Be brief and to the point.
• Speak clearly
• Speak slowly
• Always use your call sign.
• Always end each transmission with "over" if reply is required.
• Always end each transmission with "out" if no reply is required.
• Use phonetics (listed below) if bad reception or language problems and experienced.

Standby Stations

The Marine Radio Base is attended between 0600 and 1700 hours, seven days a week. Outside these hours radios are monitored by 'standby stations' in the homes of two squad members. When contacting the standby stations call first on the radio, but if there is no response, use the mobile phone contact numbers.

Free stickers for your boat with contact details are availble from the Marine Radio Base.

Phonetic Alphabet

A lpha	N ovember
B ravo	O scar
C harlie	P apa
D elta	Q uebec
E cho	R omeo
F oxtrot	S ierra
G olf	T ango
H otel	U niform
I ndia	V ictor
J uliet	W hisky
K ilo	X ray
L ima	Y ankee
M ike	Z ulu