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If the worst comes to happen at sea, you need to be prepared.  EPIRBs stand at the top of the list for essential safety devices for serious sailing. 

What are EPIRBs, what is the benefit of having one, how much do they cost and what are the things you should look out for when choosing one? We’ll be answering all these questions and several others you might have in this article. 

 

 

We’re going to dive into details on these top 5 EPIRB’s and cover some essential points on the use of them. So let’s dive in! 

 

 

What is an EPIRB? 

 

The EPIRB, known fully as the Emergency Positioning Indicating Radio Beacon, is a device placed on board sailing and boating vessels to notify search and rescue services (SAR) in times of emergency at sea. It performs this function by transmitting coded radio signals to SAR satellites worldwide through the multinational Cospas Sarsat network for free. 

After the closest SAR satellite receives the 406 MHz distress frequency signal via the satellite and earth station, the signal is then sent to a receiving station before it finally gets to a control center. 

It will help if you are also aware that this rugged battery-operated transmitting device can be categorized on its release mechanism and operating band.

 

 

Types of EPIRBs according to their Release Mechanism

 

Category I: EPIRBs in this category are automatically activated at a water depth of 1-4meters. This means when the vessel begins to sink at the above-stated depth, the buoyant EPIRB will be released from its bracket, and signal transmission is automatically activated. 

Category II: EPIRBs here are manually activated, and you’ll need to keep them in a very accessible location onboard the vessel.

 

 

Types Of EPIRBs According to Their Frequency Band

 

Several EPIRBs are also programmed to transmit signals to specific bands

The COSPAS-SARSAT System: This system consists of satellites established by Russia, the US, France, and Canada. They can locate and receive signals from EPIRBs transmitting in the 406.025MHz, 243MHz, and 121.5MHz bands.

INMARSAT E: These EPIRBs can transmit signals only to satellites with 1.6GHz. They are perfect for sea areas in the A1, A2, and A3 regions.

VHF CH 70: Some EPIRBs connect with the 156.525 MHz band only, making them perfect for sea area A1 only. 

 

 

ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 2 EPIRB and ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 1 EPIRB 

 

Starting, we have the ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 2 and ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 1 EPIRB. These two products are quite similar as they are produced by the same manufacturers and are the same model. However, while the Cat 2 is manual, Cat 1 is automatic. 

 

 

This implies that to activate Cat 2, you’ll need to remove the device from the mounting case and activate the distress signal yourself. With Cat 1, however, the EPIRB is automatically released from the mounting case whenever the bracket gets submerged to a depth of 4-14feet in water. 

 

 

This automatic release is made possible through the presence of a hydrostatic release unit which you’ll need to replace every 2years. Also, note that the difference in how the distress signal is activated in these two devices translates to an increase in the cost of the Cat 1 EPIRB model.

Apart from the difference in the mode of activation, however, the ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 1 and 2 are similar in every other way. They both are programmed for use only in the US and have a 66 channel GPS feature included to help the SAR pinpoint your exact location. The ACR GlobalFix broadcasts via 406MHz, while the 121.5MHz guides rescuers to your exact location.

With these devices, you’ll also enjoy a battery life of 10 years and, once activated, the beacon will continue sending distress signals for 48hrs. 

Finally, you’ll be glad to see that you don’t need to worry about sending false distress signals as both models feature keypad casing. 

 

Key Features

• The beacons can be manually or automatically activated
• It features a 66 channel GPS
• Keypad casing that prevents accidental activation in both models

 

 

Ocean Signal Rescue ME EPIRB1-7025-01540 

 

Next on the list is the Ocean Signal Rescue ME, also programmed for US registration. 

Well, you’ve seen what the ACR GlobalFix offers, so what are the similarities, and in what way is the Ocean Signal better, if there are any?

 

 

For one, like the ACR GlobalFix V4 Cat 1, this device is automatically activated when submerged in 4-12 feet of water. It also comes with the 66 channel GPS positioning that guarantees the SAR’s accurate pinpointing of your distress signal. 

In addition to this, you can also be sure that your EPIRB will stay on for 48hours once activated, and like the ACR GlobalFix V4, the battery has a life expectancy of 10 years. 

However, this device is much smaller and lighter than the GlobalFix. It weighs only 1.5lbs, unlike the GlobalFix that weighs 3.29lbs, hence the nickname, “small but mighty”. 

You’ll also be able to retract the antenna of the Ocean Signal. This saves space and ensures that the antenna lasts long, amongst other things. 

 

Key Features

• The Ocean Signal Rescue ME battery life is rated 7years
• This product is 33% smaller than several other EPIRBs in the market

 

 

GLOBALFIX V4 EPIRB Survival Kit

 

Moving on, we have the GlobalFix V4 survival kit. This device is a tad bit different from previously reviewed EPIRBs as it comes pre-packed with loads of other accessories that help make rescue operations easier and faster.

 

 

Like its name, this is a true survival kit, and you’ll see a signal mirror that allows you to signal for help in times of distress. You’ll also find that this kit contains a life jacket, strobe lights, and even a USCG whistle, all of which come together to aid the search and rescue team in locating and rescue operations.

Moving away from the accessories included in the GlobalFix V4 survival kit, you’ll find that this kit features a 10year replaceable battery. It also requires manual activation to successfully send out distress signals during emergencies, making it a Cat II EPIRB.

 

Key Features

• The RapidDitch express bag can float 15lbs of gear
• It needs to be manually activated
• The package includes six components 

 

 

ACR ResQKit PRO Survival Kit

 

Last but not least is the ACR ResQKit Pro survival kit. This is yet another EPIRB that packs a lot of pre-included accessories to make rescue operations easier. However, the ACR ResQKit gives you three more accessories: the distress flag, a personal locator beacon, and the E-flare. 

 

All accessories included in this kit are USCG approved, and with them on board, you can do without the traditional pyrotechnic flares onboard. The ResQflare delivers 360-degree visibility over a distance of 6 miles and meets the USCG 75CD peak fixed light intensity requirement, which must last for a period of over 20hours.

Also, the Firefly PRO Waterbug and HemiLight3 LED Strobe lights will make rescue operations at night easy, while during the day, the signal mirror and distress flag are the way to go.

 

Key Features

• The package includes eight components. 

• The ResQFlare is USCG approved as a nighttime distress signal

• The distress flag is USCG approved as a daytime distress signal

 

 

Why Should You Have an EPIRB Onboard?

 

Wondering why you should have an EPIRB on board your vessel? Well, Among the many reasons why an EPIRB is a must-have on the boat while sailing, some of the most important reasons include the fact that this distress beacon boasts a longer battery life than PLBs; actually, about 24hrs longer.

Additionally, you have the freedom to pick either automatically activated or manually activated options. Finally, besides being quite durable and rugged, you’ll also find that these devices can float and won’t get submerged with the boat.

 

 

What Are the Critical Features You Should Look for In An EPIRB?

 

Choosing an EPIRB doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Here are some essential features you must ensure are present in your EPIRB device before you go ahead to purchase it.

 

 

Long Battery Life

 

First on the list of things to look out for when choosing an EPIRB is the long battery life. With long battery life, you can ensure that your EPIRB will continue transmitting the signal until the signal gets to a SAR. When choosing EPIRB devices, you also want to ensure that the batteries are replaceable so that you wouldn’t need to change the entire unit when the battery dies.

 

 

Durable Construction

 

Another critical thing to consider is the device’s construction. The device needs to be rugged, waterproof, and lightweight. It should take a beating without any adverse effect on its functionality. 

 

 

 

GPS feature

 

EPIRBs with the GPS feature are known as GPRIBs. With this feature, you don’t need to worry about the distress beacon having issues pinpointing your exact location. Unlike EPIRBs that triangulate and narrow down your location, these devices can decipher the exact place you are.

 

 

 

Other features to Lookout For

 

In addition to the above features, some other crucial features to look out for when choosing an EPRIB include auto-activation when immersed in water. Sailing tragedies are emergencies. If you can’t activate the beacon manually, you need to be sure that the beacon can send distress signals itself.

Other nice-to-have features include a two-way communication feature and a honing beacon that will make search and rescue operations in low light conditions a lot easier.

 

 

What Should You Expect to Pay for A Good EPIRB?

 

Unlike before, when you’ll budget around $1000 to get a good EPIRB, these days, with as low as $200, you can purchase a good EPIRB device. However, this is just the base cost, and you should be ready to spend as much as $350-$500 if you desire access to features like weather forecasts and charts, GPS features, and other extra features. 

Also, note that you will be required to register your EPIRB device before you can begin using it on your boat. Registration is free and can be done online.

 

 

FAQs on EPIRBs

 

 

Q: What Is the Difference Between A GPS EPIRB And a Standard EPIRB? 

A: GPS EPIRBs are slightly different from the conventional or standard EPIRBs you might be familiar with. These GPS EPIRBs have a built-in GPS tracking system that guarantees precision when locating you during search and rescue operations. 

With a GPS built into the EPIRB, you can be sure the inherent delay that occurs due to the satellite trying to determine the beacon’s location will be eliminated, hence increasing your chances of being rescued early.

Also, these GPS EPIRBs cost about a few bucks more than the standard EPIRBs, so we recommend you opt for them when shopping for EPIRBs. You can’t even buy standard ones in the US anymore, as they are banned, not to mention that some EPIRB manufacturers have discontinued the manufacture of standard ones. 

 

Q: What Is the Normal Battery Life of an EPIRB?

A: When purchasing an EPIRB, you must check and ensure that the device can transmit for a minimum of 48 hours before the battery runs out of power. Many EPIRB manufacturers guarantee that the battery in their devices has a life expectancy of 5-10years. After which, they cannot guarantee the recommended minimum 48hours transmission time required once an EPIRB is activated.

 

Q: Do You Have to Pay a Subscription Fee to Have an Active EPIRB?

A: Activating your EPIRB device is usually free, and you would not need to pay a subscription fee to keep it active. After purchasing your EPIRB, all you need to do is register the EPIRB with your local authority. 

After you do this, you don’t need to pay a renewal fee. However, you need to note that if you change any information on your registration, you need to update the 406-registration beacon. Selling your beacon also means you must notify the local authorities and ensure that the new owner registers the beacon using their info.

 

Q: How Reliable Are EPIRBs & Are They Likely to Fail? 

A: Although EPIRBs are one of the most reliable pieces of safety equipment you’ll need onboard your vessel while sailing, like all devices, EPIRBs are not 100% foolproof. For one reason or the other, your EPIRB might fail. To prevent this and always stay one step ahead, it is recommended that you have routine maintenance of your EPIRB. 

The NOAA and coast guards recommend monthly maintenance and testing since this device will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. Also, we emphasize ensuring that your EPIRB is properly registered, well maintained, and positioned properly on the vessel.

 

Q: Is It a Good Idea to Buy a Second-Hand EPIRB? 

A: There are no laws that forbid buying a second-hand EPIRB; however, we recommend that you check and confirm that the EPIRB is in top working condition. 

Also, ensure that the EPIRB battery isn’t at its limit. The battery should still have some good years left in it. And if it is at its limit, ensure that the battery is replaceable. No point in buying a second-hand EPIRB with a non-replaceable battery. 

Lastly, the owner must contact the authorities to notify them that the beacon has been sold and then change ownership. After this, as the new owner, you will be required to update the details and register the EPIRB in your name.

 

Q: What Is the Difference Between A PLB And An EPIRB?

A: PLB stands for Personal Locator Beacon, and like EPIRBs, they are used to send coded 406MHz distress signals through the Cosapass-Sartat global satellite system. However, there are some differences between the two. 

 

 

The principal difference is that, while an EPIRB is registered to a boat, the PLB is registered to an individual. Also, PLBs are handheld, and there is a greater likelihood of accidental activation, so they can only be manually activated and are suitable for use on land and water. 

Additionally, PLBs are smaller in size, have a smaller battery capacity which means instead of 48 hours; they can only transmit for a maximum of 24hours. The batteries have a life expectancy of 6years and not the 10 years touted by EPIRBs. 

Finally, we’ve also found that not all PLBs are designed to be floatable. They may, however, come in floatable sleeves, which they must be carried in. 

 

Q: Do You Need to Register Your EPIRB?

A: Registering your EPIRB with your local authorities after purchasing it is crucial to your survival. Without registering your EPIRB, even if it is properly maintained, well-positioned, and fully functional, if disaster strikes, the beacon will transmit the distress signal to the necessary authorities, but there might be a delay in responding and helping you at the time. Also, by registering your beacon, the SAR will reach out to your emergency contacts.

WindyHQ has more information on EPIRBs, how they work, how to use one, and the satellites they connect to. So after going through the review on the best EPIRBs for boats, do well to check it out.