VHF Communication: Address and Identify
Short Summary:
This transcript explains the "address and identify" procedure for VHF radio communication. Because VHF channels are public, every transmission must begin by addressing the target vessel by name, followed by the speaker's vessel's name ("this is..."). The order is crucial; failure to follow it leads to miscommunication. Examples include calls to specific vessels (e.g., "Motor Vessel Arrow," "USS Anzio") and to unidentified vessels ("Unidentified Chinese Vessel"). The process ensures clear communication and avoids confusion on shared channels. The transcript emphasizes the importance of adhering to this standard for efficient VHF communication.
Detailed Summary:
The transcript is divided into two main sections: the importance and mechanics of "address and identify" and examples of its application.
Section 1: The Importance of Address and Identify
This section introduces the concept of "address and identify" as a crucial element of VHF communication. It emphasizes that VHF channels are public, meaning anyone can use them. Therefore, to avoid confusion and ensure clear communication, every transmission must begin by stating the name of the vessel being addressed, followed by the name of the transmitting vessel. The speaker explicitly states that the order is critical; reversing the order will likely lead to the intended recipient not responding because they will assume the first name is the name of the person trying to contact them.
Section 2: Examples of Address and Identify in Practice
This section provides several examples of correct "address and identify" usage. These examples demonstrate how to address known vessels (e.g., "Motor Vessel Arrow," "French Warship Mistral," "USS Anzio") and unknown vessels. For unknown vessels, a placeholder like "for identification" or a descriptive phrase is used (e.g., "Unidentified Chinese Vessel," "Liberian tanker with blue Hull and yellow funnel"). The examples highlight the consistent structure: [Addressed Vessel Name] this is [Your Vessel Name] [Message]. One example also demonstrates addressing multiple vessels ("all vessels passing through the Fairway"). The final example shows a scenario where the speaker requests clarification of the other vessel's name.
Notable Quotes/Statements:
- "VHF channels are public, anyone may speak on any Channel with a few restrictions."
- "every time you speak on the VHF you must begin with the name of the vessel you're addressing followed by your name this is called address and identify"
- "the order is important...you must not begin with your name"
- "When the identity of the vessel you're talking to is not known you must nonetheless put something in its place in your VHF call"
The transcript concludes by reiterating the importance of adhering to these principles for efficient VHF communication.