Uniden Marine VHF Distress Call Sent — What to Do

What Does This Error Mean?

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

Affected Models

Uniden UM385
Uniden UM625C
Uniden MHS75
Uniden MHS335BT

Common Causes

Distress button held intentionally
Accidental distress button press (false alarm)
Child or pet bumped the protective cover and distress button
Test sent by mistake

How to Fix It

Determine: real or accidental?

Real emergency: proceed with rescue communication.
Accidental: cancel immediately to prevent unnecessary rescue dispatch.
The next steps depend on this answer.
If accidental: cancel.

Menu → DSC → Cancel Distress.
The radio sends a cancellation DSC.
Then transmit on channel 16: 'This is [vessel name], cancelling distress alert sent at [time]. No emergency. Apologies.'
Coast Guard will note cancellation.
If real: switch to channel 16.

Channel 16 is for voice 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 for follow-up.
Don't power off the radio.

Whether real or false alarm, Coast Guard may need to reach you.
Powering off cuts coordination.
Stay on channel 16 until acknowledged.
Coast Guard takes false alarms seriously and may follow up to confirm safety.
Cooperate with rescuers (if real).

Follow rescuer's instructions.
They may direct you to switch channels, deploy flares, or take specific actions.
Stay on radio for coordination.
Don't make unilateral decisions independent of the rescue coordinator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I get fined for an accidental distress?

Generally no, if you cancel promptly and explain.
The Coast Guard understands accidents happen.
Repeated false alarms can result in penalties — that's why prompt cancellation matters.
Don't try to hide the false alarm — they'll figure it out and prefer you cancelled vs. ignored.

How do I send distress deliberately?

Lift the protective cover over the red distress button.
Hold the button for 3-5 seconds until the radio confirms.
Then switch to channel 16.
Only use in genuine life-threatening emergency.
False distress is a serious offense — never test the distress button.