Communication and alerting equipment

Learn about registering an emergency beacon, radio requirements and Maritime Mobile Service Identity numbers.

Register an emergency beacon

The following beacons must be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry:

Emergency Locator Transmitters
406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons

This makes it easier for search and rescue personnel to find you in the event of a distress situation.

To register an emergency beacon, visit the Canadian Beacon Registry.

Maritime Mobile Service Identity

Digital Selective Calling (DSC) radios have a unique 9-digit number that allow for private calling and simple MAYDAY alerting. This is called a Maritime Mobile Service Identity number, and acts like a cellphone number. To apply for an MMSI number, visit Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

Radio

You must equip your vessel with a non-portable Very High Frequency (VHF) radiotelephone or a VHF-DSC radio. Radio requirements vary by vessel type.

To learn about radio requirements for your vessel, visit Transport Canada.

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2025-11-18

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Communication and alerting equipment

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