What action should a vessel take upon receiving a Distress alert?

When a vessel receives a Distress alert, the most appropriate action is to avoid ignoring it, as Distress alerts are critical communications that indicate a life-threatening situation. Vessels must respond appropriately to ensure aid can be rendered as quickly as possible.

Retransmitting the alert should not be done arbitrarily. Instead, vessels are typically required to relay or acknowledge the alert to ensure that all relevant parties are aware of the danger. Notifying coast stations alone is also inadequate because the alert needs to reach all potential rescuers, including those nearby.

Thus, the best practice is to take immediate action upon receiving the Distress alert, which involves monitoring the frequency and, if directed, making a transmission to confirm receipt and provide assistance as needed. Ignoring the alert undermines safety protocols and potentially endangers lives, which is why it is essential for vessels to treat Distress alerts with urgency and seriousness.