Distress Alerts


In the maritime context, Distress Alerts are immediate signals or messages sent from a vessel to indicate that it is in grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance. These alerts are typically transmitted via maritime communication systems, such as the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which is an internationally agreed-upon set of safety procedures, types of equipment, and communication protocols used to increase safety and make it easier to rescue distressed ships, boats and aircraft. Distress alerts can be initiated by the ship's crew manually or automatically. They contain specific information about the vessel, its location, and the nature of the distress situation. Once a distress alert is received, it is the duty of all vessels who are in a position to provide assistance, to do so. The alerts are of utmost importance in ensuring the safety of life at sea, and are governed by international maritime law, specifically the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).


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