EPIRB:

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon

The Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (E.P.I.R.B.) is a supplemental means of sending a distress signal. If a vessel sinks, the E.P.I.R.B. is designed to float free and begin to transmit a distress signal. The signal is in Morse Code and includes the name and call sign of the vessel. The frequencies are 121.5MHz and 243MHz, which can be received by aircraft as well as surface vessels. The E.P.I.R.B. is colored orange to provide maximum contrast with the ocean’s surface.  EPIRBs are generally installed on boats and can either be operated automatically after an incident or manually. In most countries they are mandated to be used in all commercial shipping. However, they are also used on yachts and leisure boats.

The basic purpose of a distress radio beacon is to help rescuers find survivors within the first 24 hours following a traumatic event during which the majority of survivors can usually be saved. Most beacons are brightly colored and waterproof.  The units have a useful life of 10 years, operate across a range of conditions −40 to 104 °F, and transmit for 24 to 48 hours. 

Some Examples of EPIRB is shown below:

Maritech, Inc. – EB-2BW Whaler

Manufactured by: Maritech, Inc.

Model: EB-2BW Whaler

Power Requirements: Battery – Eveready type 560

Operating Frequencies: 121.5 and 243 MHz

DEBEG – 7520

Manufactured by: DEBEG

Model: 7520

Power Requirements: Battery

Operating Frequencies: 121.5 and 243 MHz