The VHF antenna connection appears to be a good point to inspect before an offshore passage. What should you check?

A. Replace the antenna every 6 months regardless of condition

B. The antenna is sealed for life — no maintenance required

C. Only check the antenna if the radio shows a fault code

D. Check the coaxial cable connection at both the radio and antenna base for corrosion, chafe, and security; ensure the antenna is upright and undamaged; a poor connection or corroded plug can reduce range by 80% or more

A. To send a digitally coded distress alert containing the vessel's MMSI and position automatically to all DSC-equipped stations and the Coastguard

B. To broadcast weather forecasts to other vessels

C. To make telephone calls from the vessel to shore

D. To operate the radar system remotely

A. A GPS waypoint identifier used in coastal navigation

B. Maritime Mobile Service Identity — a unique 9-digit number identifying the vessel; without it a DSC distress alert cannot identify the vessel to rescuers

C. A VHF channel number allocated by Ofcom for distress use only

D. A vessel survey certificate number required by the MCA