Captain Jim's Radio Telephone Tips

RANDOM NOTES ON RADIOTELEPHONE TIPS

By Captain James F. Barn CD

VTS (Vessel Traffic Services) is the arm of the CCG which aids the safety of shipping throughout Canada. It is, of course, designed for the professional mariner operating commercial and larger (other use) vessels. These promulgated VHF channels offer a wealth of navigational information to those who are by law compelled to comply... .and those of us who wish to eavesdrop and make good use of the service.

Let me assure you that it is not necessary to participate in the Service, we can listen but we may also utilize the channel for navigational/identification and other uses simply by keying the mike and using the proper procedure.

For instance if you observe a larger or commercial vessel with which you wish to exchange information this can be done simply and effectively.

Having been listening on the circuit, you may be aware (by previous VTS conversations) the vessel's callsign... .call the vessel .. .inform her who and where you are in relation to that vessel and .. .ask or exchange your information. OR

If you do not know who the vessel is... .call the VTS and inform of your position (geographical) and where the mystery vessel is situated in relation to your position.. ..VTS will identify that target for you and you may then communicate directly.

COMOX TRAFFIC CH#71 will assist you all the way to Cape Scott

TOFINO TRAFFIC CH#74 will assist you all the way to Juan de Fuca

VICTORIA TRAFFIC CH#l In Juan de Fuca and up toward Winchelsea Is

SEATTLE TRAFFIC CH#05A Also in Juan de Fuca Strait

Please leam how to use Distress, Urgency and Safety Signals and do not be timid on the use of your VHF Radio.

Consider buying a copy of Radio Aids to Marine Navigation plus a copy of List of Lights Buoys and Fog Signals (Pacific Coast) keeping this one corrected is simple and will let you get much longer use from those dog-eared charts we all keep under the for'd berth.

Channel 16 is, as we all know, a distress/calling frequency, commercial vessels for the large part only listen to this frequency but guard the Traffic frequency, I firmly believe if you start making it a habit of utilizing Traffic Services it will make all your outings more pleasant, professional and safe.

Hope these small tips help.

Jim

S/V WHIMSY II

Captain JFBnin CD

DEEP BAY MARINA