VHF Lesson 5: Pan-Pan and Sécurité

Choose the correct priority

Separate urgent situations from distress and navigational safety broadcasts.

Core lesson

PAN-PAN announces an urgent message concerning the safety of a ship, aircraft, vehicle or person when immediate assistance is not yet demanded as distress. SÉCURITÉ introduces important navigational or meteorological safety information. If circumstances deteriorate to grave and imminent danger, upgrade to MAYDAY.

Scenario: What is the safest habit to apply from this lesson?

Show the recommended decision

Listen, use the correct priority and channel, transmit only necessary information, and confirm critical details.

Rule link: International maritime radiotelephony procedure.

Source: USCG GMDSS information.

Educational material only. It does not replace the current official rules, notices, local regulations, proper training or prudent seamanship.