you can provide will better improve the likelihood that search units will be able to locate you in the event you break down or need assistance. Should your plans change during your trip, be certain to notify the individual with whom you've filled your float plan. (See sample on page 42) Your Marine Radio and the FCC A marine radio is a wise investment in safety for any recreational boater planning to venture any distance from shore or to any area where immediate rescue is unlikely. Your marine radio will allow you to request marine assistance or towing services, in non-emergency situations, from a variety of commercial services. Distress and mayday calling should be limited to medical emergencies or other situations where the safety of those on board is threatened. Current Federal Communications Commission regulations exempt small recreational boats, operating domestically, from needing to carry a ship station or operator license. Changes in Marine Radio Communications Commercial vessels that are required to be Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) compliant are no longer required to maintain a listening watch on VHF channel 16. The U.S. Coast Guard encourage all recreational vessels not required to participate in GMDSS to carry a system to enhance safety, particularly if you venture offshore away from the more populated recreational boating areas. The recommended primary system would be a digitally selective calling (DSC) marine radio and an Emergency Position Indicator Radio Beacon (EPIRB). For more information on GMDSS please contact the U.S. Coast Guard. Cell phones - many recreational boaters rely on cell phones as their primary means of marine communication. And while a cell phone can be useful in many situations it should not replace your marine (VHF) radio. In emergency situations your 911 call may be misdirected to police or fire departments thus delaying rescue. Cell calls can not be contacted by rescue boats and aircraft. Your cell phone should supplement your VHF, not replace it. If you must 49