Friday, February 12, 2021

Network Issues Causing Radio Outages in Alaska

Mariners travelling through the Southeast Alaskan area from Yakutat to Ketchikan should have additional forms of communication with them beyond their VHF radio systems.

This week, network issues have been causing intermittent outages in the area, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. While a commercial service provider is looking into the issue, the agency is asking mariners to be prepared with additional communication items such as an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messaging device.

Cell phones, satellite phones or high frequency radio communications on 4,125 kHz, 6,215 kHz, and 8,291 kHz are also recommended.

“Until this outage is resolved, it’s crucial for mariners to have alternative forms of communication with them,” said Cmdr. Meredith Gillman, search and rescue mission coordinator. “It is also recommended that mariners create a float plan and file it with their local harbor master or trusted friends and family.”

The Coast Guard Sector Juneau command center can be reached via cellular or satellite phone at 907-463-2980.