Frequently Asked Questions

2007 Statistics
Approximately seventy percent of all fatal boating accident victims drowned.
(484 out of 676) Approximately 90 percent of the victims who drowned were not
wearing their personal flotation device (PFD or life jacket).

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ALERT 2 ?
The ALERT 2 is a new safety system designed to notify the vessel if someone falls overboard, and locate the MOB. Everyone knows how hard it is to find a person in the water who has been overboard for only a minute. The ALERT 2 solves that problem by sounding an alarm on the boat within seconds of someone falling overboard, and locating them with the Alert/DF Direction Finder.

How does it know when someone falls overboard?
The ALERT 2 system has water activated transmitters that are worn by the deck crew. If the transmitter becomes submerged for a few seconds, it switches on automatically, transmitting a radio signal to the ALERT 2 receiver on the boat. When the receiver picks up the signal it sounds a loud alarm, alerting the deck crew. It works in fresh or salt water.

How does it locate the person overboard?
With the optional Alert/DF Direction Finder the victim can be located when the hand held antenna is swept around the horizon and pointed in the direction of the MOB. Max range is 1 mile.

How does it help the single hander?
The shipboard mounted receiver has relay contacts that can be wired into various devices such as an engine shut down or autopilot disconnect. This gives the victim a chance to swim back to the boat.

How many transmitters can be used?
There is no limit to the number of transmitters. Every crew member should wear one on deck.

Will it switch on if I get splashed on deck?
When mounted in its pouch (included), rain and waves splashing against it will not activate the water sensor.

What is the difference between the Alert 2 and an EPIRB?
An EPIRB is designed to transmit to a satellite which will retransmit a position to the authorities. It may take many hours before a search effort is launched. The ALERT 2 is a local beacon for the boat and provides quick notification for the fastest rescue.

Will the Alert 2 work underwater?
No. The ALERT 2 Transmitter is on a UHF frequency and will not transmit underwater. This is why flotation should be worn and the transmitter mounted high on the body.

What do I have to do to maintain the system?
The ALERT 2 uses two 3.6 volt replaceable lithium batteries (included) with a 10 year shelf life. Replace the batteries after emergency use.

Do I need a radio license?
The ALERT 2 is approved by the U.S. FCC and by Industry Canada. No license is required.

Who is using the Alert 2?
The ALERT 2 is currently in use by the U.S. Coast Guard, Pilot Vessels, Tug Boats, Fishing Vessels, Powerboats, and Offshore Sailboats.