Which frequency is often associated with maritime distress communications?

The frequency associated with maritime distress communications is 2182 kHz. This frequency is designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is specifically reserved for distress, urgency, and safety communications. It is a vital part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which ensures that ships in distress can effectively communicate their situation to nearby vessels and coastal stations.

Using 2182 kHz, mariners can receive or send out distress signals, thereby facilitating prompt rescue operations. This frequency is monitored around the clock by maritime authorities and other vessels to ensure a rapid response to emergencies at sea.

The other frequencies listed serve different purposes. For instance, 406.025 MHz is used for satellite-based distress beacons (EPIRBs), primarily for search and rescue and not for direct ship-to-ship or ship-to-shore distress communications. 121.500 MHz is the international distress frequency for aircraft and is also monitored; however, it is not the primary maritime distress frequency. Lastly, 156.800 MHz is used for marine VHF radio communications, specifically for calling and safety, but it is not exclusively dedicated to distress communication.

Thus, 2182 kHz is the correct frequency specifically associated with maritime distress and