Calling for help from the high seas is easier and more effective than ever before. Everyone is familiar with the 911 system that facilitates shore-side emergency communication and response.
Calling 911 isn’t the most effective option for getting help in a marine emergency, but now you can call Rescue 21. Rescue 21 is the modern emergency response system for U.S. coastal waters, navigable rivers and lakes. Rescue 21 provides major improvements to the Coast Guard’s ability to detect calls for help and to locate vessels in distress.
It enhances the agency’s ability to coordinate search and rescue operations, to promote homeland security and to prevent environmental damage to the nation's waterways. The Rescue 21 system provides coverage to 20 nautical miles from the coasts of the contiguous United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam and the Gulf of Alaska.
Coverage will include the Great Lakes, navigable waters of the Intracoastal Waterway System and the Western Rivers.
Rescue 21 offers reliable voice and data communications between vessels and shore stations, together with instantaneous information about the location and identity of a vessel in distress.
Whether you’re a commercial seaman or a recreational boater, this program shows you how it works.
Produced in conjunction with the National GMDSS Task Force. DVD Video, 18 minutes.