What is the function of an EPIRB?

The function of an EPIRB, which stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon, is to transmit distress signals to alert search and rescue services in the event of an emergency at sea. When activated, an EPIRB sends out a signal that includes the beacon's location, allowing rescue teams to quickly determine where to search for a vessel in distress. This device is crucial for enhancing the safety of mariners, as it provides a reliable means of communication in situations where other forms may not be available.

The design and operational concept behind an EPIRB are specifically tailored to ensure that, in the event of an accident, the right assistance can be mobilized as efficiently as possible. By providing critical location data, EPIRBs have significantly improved survival rates for those lost or stranded at sea.