47 C.F.R. § 80.316 Distress messages.
Title 47 - Telecommunication
(a) The radiotelephone distress message consists of: (1) The distress signal MAYDAY; (2) The name of the mobile station in distress; (3) Particulars of its position; (4) The nature of the distress; (5) The kind of assistance desired; (6) Any other information which might facilitate rescue, for example, the length, color, and type of vessel, number of persons on board. (b) As a general rule, a ship must signal its position in latitude and longitude, using figures for the degrees and minutes, together with one of the words NORTH or SOUTH and one of the words EAST or WEST. In radiotelegraphy, the signal .-.-.- must be used to separate the degrees from the minutes. When practicable, the true bearing and distance in nautical miles from a known geographical position may be given. (c) The procedures for canceling false distress alerts are contained in §80.335. [51 FR 31213, Sept. 2, 1986, as amended at 68 FR 46968, Aug. 7, 2003]
Title 47: Telecommunication
PART 80—STATIONS IN THE MARITIME SERVICES
Subpart G—Safety Watch Requirements and Procedures
Distress, Alarm, Urgency and Safety Procedures
§ 80.316 Distress messages.
