Personal Locator Beacons

Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are essential safety devices that can significantly enhance safety on the water. They provide a reliable way to signal for help in emergencies, especially when all other forms of communication have failed. While similar in function to a vessel Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), PLBs offer flexibility in their design and are suited to different scenarios depending on the type of adventure and environment.

Why PLBs Should Be Onboard

PLBs are crucial for all boaters because they offer an immediate means to alert rescue services and nearby vessels in an emergency, such as falling overboard. They are compact, easy to carry, and can be manually activated to transmit a distress signal. Having a PLB onboard increases the chances of a timely rescue, which can be lifesaving, particularly in adverse conditions.

Types of PLBs and Their Suitability

EPIRB-Type PLBs (406 MHz):

• Best for Solo Ocean Adventures: These PLBs transmit distress signals on the 406 MHz frequency, the same frequency used by EPIRBs. They send signals to the Cospas-Sarsat satellite network, which has global coverage. This type of PLB is ideal for solo adventurers or those traveling far offshore, as it can alert global search and rescue authorities regardless of the boat’s location. The reach of EPIRB-type PLBs is essentially global, making them the preferred choice for open-ocean voyages where immediate help may not be close by.
   
• GPS Capabilities: Many of these PLBs are equipped with GPS, providing precise location data to rescuers, which significantly enhances the chances of a successful rescue.

VHF-Type PLBs (AIS and VHF Transmission)

• Best for Crewed Vessels and Nearshore: VHF-type PLBs, often referred to as Man Overboard (MOB) devices, transmit a distress signal on VHF maritime radio frequencies, such as channel 16, and sometimes include AIS (Automatic Identification System) capabilities. These PLBs are most effective when there are others on the vessel who can turn the boat around and attempt a rescue. The signal can also be picked up by nearby boats equipped with VHF radios or AIS, making it suitable for situations where a quick local response is possible.
   
• Range: The effective range of VHF-type PLBs is limited to line-of-sight, typically up to about 5 to 10 nautical miles, depending on antenna height and sea conditions. This makes them more suited for coastal waters, harbors, or areas with high vessel traffic, where help is likely to be nearby. For perspective, if your vessel is traveling at 15 knots, then your person overboard PLB can only be seen by your vessel’s VHF receiver for about 20 minutes after which the PLB could be out of range.

Comparing the Two Types of PLBs

• EPIRB-Type PLBs (406 MHz): These are best suited for long-distance offshore sailing or solo boating because they can reach rescue services globally through satellites. They provide a robust safety net for those who may not have immediate assistance available from nearby vessels.
   
• VHF-Type PLBs: These are ideal for situations where there is a higher likelihood of nearby vessels that can respond to a distress signal. They are particularly useful in congested waters or for day trips where the crew can perform a quick recovery.

Here is a good video describing the benefits of a PLB using VHF

Conclusion

Having a PLB onboard is a critical safety measure for any boater. Choosing the right type of PLB depends on the boating environment and the nature of the trip. For those venturing far offshore or alone, an EPIRB-type PLB is invaluable for ensuring global rescue coverage. For nearshore activities or situations where crew members can quickly respond to an overboard incident, a VHF-type PLB is an excellent tool for facilitating a fast local response. Both types of PLBs greatly enhance safety on the water and should be considered essential equipment for every boat.