Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) when activated will transmit a signal via satellites to the relevant authorities indicating that you are in distress and in need of immediate rescue.
An EPIRB is a crucial element of marine safety and, as a result, is usually a compulsory item of safety equipment in many applications and jurisdictions . In the absence of an EPIRB it could be a long time before anyone even becomes aware of your situation.
The feature distinguishing a modern EPIRB from older models is that it contains a GPS receiver and can broadcast its position with a higher degree of accuracy than earlier versions. Beacons without GPS can only be localised to within 2 km. if you have one of these older non-GPS models nearing its expiration, it will be worthwhile to consider an upgrade instead of a battery replacement.
There are a variety of brands on the market which you might have your own preference for, but there is a list of criteria that we always look for:
- Minimum of 10 year battery life. Be careful with this as there are some that are advertised with 12 years of life but in fact require that battery to be replaced at the 6 year mark.
- Compact size. No matter if it’s going to be placed on a boat, in a life raft or in your car, space is always at a premium.
- Abundant local distribution. If you ever need to get them covered under warranty or have a battery replaced, it’s a much smoother process when stock, parts and services are readily available.
- The right price. No one wants to pay more than they have to.
For these reasons, West Offshore supplies and recommends Ocean Signal EPIRBs.
Ocean Signal rescueMe EPIRB 1
- Typically 30% smaller
- 10 year battery life
- 48+ hours operational life
- 5 year warranty †
- Fast accurate positioning with 66 channel GPS
- Retractable antenna
- Quick release bracket
- Secure lanyard
The RescueME EPIRB1 provides peace of mind with an impressive 10 year battery life. The world’s most compact EPIRB can always be on hand, as its small size allows it to be easily retained within its quick release bracket or placed in an emergency grab-bag or a life raft.
A simple protective tab over the operating keys prevents inadvertent activation, yet allows for easy operation when required. The RescueME EPIRB1 also features two high intensity strobes to maximise visibility in low light conditions.
The retractable antenna provides maximum protection and a reduced outline for stowage. When required the antenna is easily deployed with a gentle pull.
Ocean Signal EPIRB1 Pro – Float free, self activating
- Approved for use on SOLAS vessels
- Most compact Float Free EPIRB / 30% Smaller Footprint (typically)
- State of the art 66 channel GPS receiver for fast and accurate position acquisition
- Float Free bracket, automatic release housing with Hydrostatic Release Unit
- High intensity strobe lights
- 10 Year Battery Life
- Intuitive operating controls protected from accidental activation
- Meets or exceeds all International standards including IMO and GMDSS
- Class 2 EPIRB (-20°C – +55°C) for general use
- Non-hazardous battery
These are the go-to float free EPIRB. With the introduction of new regulations in 2021 requiring commercial vessels to be equipped with a float free EPIRB, these are the obvious choice. The same great design as the standard EPIRB1, but now water activated and contained within a housing that will deploy the EPIRB automatically when submerged. The hydrostatic release unit acts in the same manner as other applications and has a 2 year replacement interval.