to VHF or not VHF ?

[old_rookie]

Originally Posted by dorado50

Channel 16 is for emergencies only,(for the most part). Its the coast guard channel. Used for reporting hazards on the water, stranded boats,etc. Its like the land #911. Very annoying when montoring 16 and some nitwit calls in for a radio check. Channel 27 is now set up for radio checks only,its supposed to be in full operation now.

Somewhere I remember reading or hearing that radio checks were ok on 16. Ok, well, that is my mistake in trying to get a response on a radio check. I'm glad I asked. I know it is for emergencies, so I did wait until there were no transmissions of that type.

I posted a chart of how each channel is used. I'll look it up.... its on page 21
http://www.uniden.com/pdf/MHS350om.pdf

And some research from BoatSafe.com:
The Coast Guard First District (New England, south to northern New Jersey) is now answering radio checks on VHF maritime channel 16, operations permitting. Radio checks will not be answered when CG radio operators are handling distress communications.
The purpose of this policy change is to help reduce hoax MAYDAY calls. Radio checks with the Coast Guard are not permitted in any other location.
You should limit your radio checks to working channels.