Standard Horizon HX370S - Manual (Page 25)

HX370S Page 23
Prior to making contact with another vessel, refer to the channel charts in
this manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after
initial contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 of the U.S. VHF Charts are
some of the channels available to non-commercial (recreational) boaters.
Monitor your desired channel in advance to make sure you will not be inter-
rupting other traffic, and then go back to either channel 16 or 9 for your initial
contact.
When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear, state the name of the other
vessel you wish to call and then “this is” followed by the name of your
vessel and your Station License (Call Sign). When the other vessel returns
your call, immediately request another channel by saying “go to,” the num-
ber of the other channel, and "over." Then switch to the new channel. When
the new channel is not busy, call the other vessel.
After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone's push-to-talk
(PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed,
end the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note
that it is not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only
at the beginning and end of the contact.
Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some
radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels
or when scanning; see your Owner's Manual.
5.12 OPERATING ON CHANNEL 13
Channel 13 is used at docks, bridges and for maneuvering in port. Mes-
sages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting and
passing in restricted waters. In emergencies and when approaching blind
river bends, High power is allowed. Pressing the H/L key will change the
power output from 1 Watt (
) to 5 Watts ( ); if pressed again, 2.5 Watts
( ) will be selected. When the PTT switch is released, the transceiver will
revert to Low power. Press the H/L key again if you need High power on a
subsequent transmission.
5.13 OPERATING ON CHANNEL 67
When channel 67 is used for navigational bridge-to-bridge traffic between
ships, High or Medium power may be used temporarily (in the USA band) by
pressing the H/L key. When the PTT switch released, the transceiver will
revert to low power.