Testing EPIRBs

The Coast Guard urges those owning EPIRBs to periodically examine them for water tightness, battery expiration date and signal presence.   Most EPIRBs have a test switch that alllows emission of a signal that is ignored by the satellites. Testing a 406 MHz EPIRB by actual activation is illegal. For a pdf on NOAA SARSAT testing procedures, click here.

Battery Replacement

406 MHz EPIRBs use a special type of lithium battery designed for long-term low-power consumption operation. Batteries must be replaced by the date indicated on the EPIRB label using the model specified by the manufacturer. It should be replaced by a dealer approved by the manufacturer. If the replacement battery is not the proper type, the EPIRB will not operate for the duration specified in a distress.

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For more information...

Types of EPIRBS 121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs Class C EPIRBs 406 MHz EPIRBs Inmarsat E EPIRB Testing EPIRBs Registration of 406 MHz EPIRBs Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) NOAA SARSAT page