Guernsey mariners are being urged to register their Personal Locator Beacons ahead of new UK regulations which come into force next Wednesday.
Although the legal requirements apply to UK-flagged vessels, local authorities have advised that all mariners should comply to ensure faster rescue responses.
Two different types of device are affected.
EPIRBs, which are vessel-specific and can activate automatically, and PLBs, which are handheld, wearable devices that must be activated manually.
By registering a beacon, it provides the Coastguard with immediate data on the person in distress, helping them to distinguish genuine emergencies from false alarms.
Guernsey’s Harbour Master and Head of Guernsey Coastguard said keeping these vital safety devices up to date and registered is one of the best way to improve safety at sea.
“While the new PLB registration requirements apply specifically to UK-flagged vessels, we strongly encourage all Guernsey mariners to register their PLBs and EPIRBs as well,” said James Way.
“When a beacon is activated, every second counts. Having accurate, up-to-date registration details allows our Maritime Watch Officers to quickly understand who is in trouble, where they may be, and what resources are needed to respond. Registering your PLB or EPIRB is quick, free, and one of the simplest ways to improve your safety at sea.”
In the push to promote registration, Guernsey’s Coastguard has pointed to two successful rescues in April last year which proved their impact.
Guernsey Coastguard stated that “in April 2025, a sailor and his cat were rescued after their 10-metre yacht lost all navigation and communication equipment in poor weather, around 5–6 nautical miles north of Guernsey.
“Later the same month, another mariner was rescued 8 nautical miles southwest of the Casquets Lighthouse following a power failure and the loss of all onboard navigational equipment.”
Registration is free and takes minutes through the UK Government’s website.
The UK Distress & Security Beacon Registry Manager said the simple step could be the difference between life and death.
“The benefit of registering your PLB is simple: it gives yourself – and everyone you’re with – a head start to being rescued from an emergency,” said Linda Goulding.
“The registration process is free, takes just 15 minutes, and could make the difference between life and death.”
