All boaties using Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) are reminded that from 1 February 2009 121.5 MHz beacons will no longer be detected by satellite.  Anyone using these beacons should replace it with a 406 MHz beacon as soon as possible.

The switch to 406 MHz brings significant benefits, in particular they offer increased accuracy in the event of a search being undertaken but added to that these EPIRBs can be registered which will allow emergency authorities the liberty of calling to verify an emergency and avoid any false alarms.

The new beacons also offer increased global coverage, increased alert time and increased signal strength.

More information on the changes and the process for registration are available at:
www.beacons.amsa.gov.au/