An image of an EPIRB

SPRINGFIELD, Va. – April 3, 2026 – April 6 is Beacon Awareness Day! An emergency beacon, or ERB, is used to transmit a 406MHz distress signal that is detected by satellites. When a beacon is activated, an alert is sent through COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system to the appropriate rescue agency so they can locate boaters in remote areas or at sea. Rescue Coordination Centers are run by the U.S. Coast Guard for any maritime distress and the U.S. Air Force for any land-based distress. 

There are two types of emergency beacons: An EPIRB, or emergency position indicating radio beacon, is best suited for a boat or vessel and is typically mounted in an accessible location on board. A PLB, or personal location beacon, is for the individual and should be kept on the person – for example, attached to a life jacket. Both types must be registered with NOAA at no charge.  

“A 406 MHz emergency beacon can be a lifeline when you’re beyond VHF radio or cellphone range,” said Ted Sensenbrenner, Director of Boating Safety at BoatUS Foundation. “I always advise boaters to ensure their beacon and vessel information is up to date, test it only using the self-test function – never the ‘ON’ button – and always verify the battery expiration date. In a life-threatening emergency, that preparation helps ensure your alert reaches rescue teams quickly.” 

The BoatUS Foundation offers EPIRB and PLB rentals at affordable daily, weekly, or monthly rates. To rent a beacon, visit boatus.org/epirb.  

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About BoatUS Foundation:  

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by donations from the more than 740,000 members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), the nonprofit provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America's waterways, and keeping boating safe for all. A range of safe and clean boating courses – including the nation's only free online boating safety course – can be found at boatus.org.