The Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre is warning the public to correctly programme and register emergency beacons.

The announcement comes after the centre (BMOC) received an emergency alert from an unregistered 406MHz Beacon yesterday.

The spokeswoman said: “BMOC would like to remind all owners of 406MHz Emergency Beacons (EPIRBs — Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons; ELTs — Emergency Locator Transmitters; and PLBs — Personal Locator Beacons) of the need to have beacons correctly programmed and registered with the Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre (RCC Bermuda).

“This will allow Search & Rescue authorities to quickly identify and aid persons in Distress. All beacon registrations can be conducted on line via the following website www.marops.bm with further guidance also available from the Duty Officer at the Maritime Operations Centre.”

She pointed out that a cellphone was not a substitute for a VHF radio, and that all boaters must carry a VHF radio when operating seaward of Narrows Channel, South Channel, Western Boat Channel and the outer reef between Pompano Beacon and Spit Buoy.

The Bermuda Water Safety Council will host a “Boat Safety Seminar” at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club on May 17 between 1pm and 4.30pm, which will include demonstrations of VHF Radios and 406MHz Emergency Beacons. Registration details are available online at www.wsc.bm.