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Distress Sent

Cobra Marine VHF Radio

Severity: Critical

Source: OnlyErrorCodes.com — Every error code. One place.

Cobra Marine VHF Distress Sent — What to Do Next

What Does This Error Mean?

'Distress Sent' confirms your radio transmitted a DSC distress alert.
If real: switch to channel 16 immediately and prepare for rescue communication.
If accidental: cancel immediately via menu (DSC → Cancel Distress) and announce on channel 16.
Don't power off — Coast Guard needs to reach you for either real distress or false alarm follow-up.

Affected Models

  • Cobra MR HH-series
  • Cobra F77
  • Cobra F57
  • Cobra MR HH600

Common Causes

  • Distress button intentionally held
  • Accidental press (button bumped)
  • Test sent in error
  • Child or pet activated by accident

How to Fix It

  1. Determine real or accidental.

    Real: proceed with rescue.
    Accidental: cancel.
    Next steps depend on this answer.
    Don't delay — accidental distress wastes Coast Guard resources.

  2. If accidental: cancel immediately.

    Menu → DSC → Cancel Distress.
    The radio sends cancellation DSC.
    Then voice on channel 16: 'This is [vessel name], cancelling distress alert sent at [time]. No emergency. Apologies.'
    Coast Guard logs cancellation.

  3. If real: switch to channel 16.

    Channel 16 is for voice communication after DSC distress.
    Coast Guard or rescuer will call you on 16.
    Speak clearly: vessel name, position, nature of distress, persons aboard, injuries.
    Stay on 16.

  4. Don't power off.

    Whether real or false, Coast Guard needs to reach you.
    Powering off cuts coordination.
    Stay on channel 16 until acknowledged.
    Coast Guard may follow up to confirm safety even after cancellation.

  5. Cooperate with rescuers (real distress).

    Follow rescuer instructions.
    They may direct channel changes, flares, or actions.
    Stay on radio.
    Don't make unilateral decisions independent of the rescue coordinator — they have the bigger picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be charged for accidental distress?

Generally no, with prompt cancellation.
Coast Guard understands accidents.
Repeated false alarms can result in fines.
Don't try to hide the false alarm — they'll figure it out, and prompt cancellation is appreciated.
Be honest with the operator.

How do I prevent accidental distress?

Cobra distress buttons have a flip-up cover for protection.
Make sure the cover is closed when you're not actively using DSC distress.
Keep children and pets away from the radio.
If accidental presses are common in your boat layout, consider a different radio mounting position.