Shop EPIRBs and PLBs
EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) are rescue beacons that send out an emergency 406 MHz radio signal to rescue agencies. They should only be used when there is immediate danger to lives or the chance of losing your boat.
Boats need a way to send a reliable message to rescue agencies that says, “I am in trouble!” While an emergency message can be transmitted by voice, using a VHF, HAM or SSB radio, there are may be times when your batteries are dead, or you need to be rescued from a life raft that does not have a voice radio.
EPIRBs and PLBs have the following attributes:
- They are waterproof.
- Their batteries are self-contained.
- They transmit an internationally recognized 406 MHz emergency signal that is monitored by satellites and that can be relayed to rescue agencies most anywhere in the world. In addition, they also transmit 121.5 MHz homing signal which aids rescue agencies to zero in on your location.
- They have saved the lives of thousands of boaters and commercial seamen.
Now let’s discuss the two types of EPIRBs that West Marine sells and the difference between them.
Category I and Category II 406 MHz EPIRBs
The 406 MHz frequency is specifically reserved for marine distress calls and is monitored via satellites around the world. Early models of EPIRBs could identify a boat’s position to within a radius of about one mile, however recent versions of EPIRBs, those that can be linked to an onboard GPS or those that include an integral GPS, greatly speed up the time in which agencies can respond and in addition, narrow the search radius to within 100 yards.
EPIRB Activation Methods
Float-free (Category I) EPIRBs have a hydrostatic release which automatically deploys when submerged in water. These styles are designed to be mounted in an open cockpit location, where they can actually “float free” if necessary.
Manually activated EPIRBs (Category II) should be mounted or stored in an easily accessible location. Remember that if the EPIRB is safely stowed in a locker, it will likely not see the light of day if the boat sinks quickly.
EPIRB Registration
EPIRBs require registration to a government database. Registration includes providing important information such as the boat’s name, boat type, safety equipment onboard and emergency contact information. When an EPIRB transmits, rescuers can quickly identify the boat and can phone emergency contacts to verify its itinerary. EPIRBs are intended strictly for marine use and have around a 48-hour battery life once activated.
How PLBs Differ from EPIRBS
While EPIRBs are for boats, PLBs are for personal use. PLBs are smaller than EPIRBs and when activated have a shorter battery life. Like EPIRBs, they operate on the 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz frequencies and provide the same worldwide coverage. They also require registration to a government database; but rather than being registered to a boat, they are registered to a person, which gives you the ability to take your EPIRB from boat to boat or wherever you wish.
Brands of EPIRBs and PLBs
West Marine offers EPIRBs and PLBs by ACR Electronics and Ocean Signal.
Boat EPIRBs & PLBs FAQ
EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) are designed for maritime use and automatically activate when submerged, sending a distress signal.
PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) are smaller, portable devices that must be manually activated.
Both transmit a 406 MHz emergency signal monitored globally by search and rescue agencies.
Consider these factors when selecting an emergency beacon:
- Boating Type: EPIRBs are ideal for offshore voyages, while PLBs are great for personal use and smaller boats.
- Battery Life: EPIRBs typically have longer-lasting batteries than PLBs.
- Activation Method: EPIRBs auto-activate when submerged, while PLBs require manual activation.
Choose based on your boating habits and safety needs.
Batteries should be replaced according to manufacturer guidelines, typically:
- EPIRBs: Every 5-7 years.
- PLBs: Every 5 years or after activation.
Check the expiration date and replace batteries as needed to maintain reliable operation.
Yes, both are designed to be waterproof and function effectively in wet environments.
However, it’s important to secure them properly to prevent damage or loss in an emergency.
Both devices transmit a 406 MHz emergency signal to a global satellite system, relaying your location to rescue agencies.
Many models also include GPS capability, which provides precise coordinates to expedite rescue efforts.
Yes, PLBs are versatile and can be used for both marine and land-based activities, such as hiking and camping.
Ensure the device is properly registered and complies with local regulations for effective operation.