Which statement about MAYDAY is true?

Which statement about MAYDAY is true?

• A. It indicates the highest-priority distress call.
• B. It is used for routine check-ins.
• C. It signals a navigational warning.
• D. It means all is well.

Answer: (A)

MAYDAY signals imminent danger and requires immediate assistance. It is the highest-priority distress call in maritime communications and should be used only when lives are at risk or the vessel cannot safely continue. When issuing MAYDAY, you start by saying the word MAYDAY three times, then identify your vessel, provide your position, describe the nature of the distress, state how many people are on board, and specify the kind of help needed. You stay on the channel to coordinate rescue and supply updates as the situation evolves. This is not for routine check-ins, which are normal communications; it’s not a navigational warning, which would use safety or navigation messages; and it does not mean all is well.

MAYDAY signals imminent danger and requires immediate assistance. It is the highest-priority distress call in maritime communications and should be used only when lives are at risk or the vessel cannot safely continue. When issuing MAYDAY, you start by saying the word MAYDAY three times, then identify your vessel, provide your position, describe the nature of the distress, state how many people are on board, and specify the kind of help needed. You stay on the channel to coordinate rescue and supply updates as the situation evolves. This is not for routine check-ins, which are normal communications; it’s not a navigational warning, which would use safety or navigation messages; and it does not mean all is well.