Boating Safety: EPIRBs & PLBs at Fisheries Supply
This category explains EPIRBs and PLBs for offshore, coastal, and daysail boaters.
Key Takeaways
- Match beacon to use case: Category I EPIRB (auto) for offshore; Category II EPIRB or PLB (manual) for coastal/personal carry.
- Battery runtime differs: EPIRBs =48 hours; PLBs =24 hours (operational minimums per SARSAT/industry guidance).
- GPS/GNSS improves rescues: Models that encode position are located faster by the Cospas–Sarsat system.
- Register 406 MHz beacons: U.S. users register EPIRBs/PLBs with NOAA SARSAT.
- Trusted brands in stock: ACR, McMurdo, Ocean Signal.
What These Beacons Do & Why They Matter
EPIRBs and PLBs transmit a 406 MHz distress alert to the international Cospas–Sarsat satellite network, which routes your details to search-and-rescue authorities. GPS/GNSS-equipped models encode position for faster, more precise response. U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies rely on accurate beacon registration to contact you and coordinate rescue.
EPIRBs: Offshore-Focused
EPIRBs are essential marine safety devices designed to transmit distress signals to search and rescue authorities in case of an emergency.
When to choose: Offshore and extended coastal passages; commercial/commercial-style operations that prefer automatic deployment.
EPIRB Categories- Category I (auto): Designed for offshore and long-distance voyages, these EPIRBs automatically activate upon water immersion, ensuring maximum protection.
- Category II (manual): Suitable for coastal and inland boaters, these manually activated (or automatically activated if they are removed from their bracket and submerged in water) beacons offer a cost-effective yet reliable emergency signaling solution.
- Battery life: EPIRBs typically offer 48+ hours of transmission.
- Activation: Category I EPIRBs activate automatically.
- GPS & signaling: GPS-enabled models ensure faster location tracking for quicker rescue responses.
PLBs: Compact, Person-Carried
For boaters, kayakers, and outdoor adventurers, Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) provide a portable safety net. These handheld devices can be activated manually in an emergency, sending your GPS location to search and rescue teams.
PLB Types- Waterproof PLBs: Designed to float and withstand demanding marine conditions, making them ideal for boating safety.
- GPS-enabled PLBs: These models enhance search and rescue efficiency by transmitting precise location coordinates.
- Battery life: PLBs provide at least 24 hours of transmission.
- Activation: PLBs require manual activation.
Choosing Between an EPIRB and a PLB
- Mission profile: Offshore passages ? Category I EPIRB; coastal/day use ? Category II EPIRB or PLB.
- Deployment preference: Automatic float-free vs. manual carry/activation.
- Runtime: Prioritize EPIRB if =48-hour duty cycle is critical.
- Form factor: PLB for wearability and personal redundancy.
- Position encoding: Choose GPS/GNSS-enabled models for faster localization.
If you're unsure whether you need an EPIRB vs. PLB, our knowledgeable representatives are here to help. We provide guidance on the best EPIRB for sale based on your boat type and navigation routes.
Shop Our Selection Today!
We carry leading brands—ACR, McMurdo, and Ocean Signal
For additional guidance, explore our resources on choosing an emergency device or browse our man overboard equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EPIRB?
EPIRBs are essential marine safety devices designed to transmit distress signals to search and rescue authorities in case of an emergency.
What are the types of EPIRBs?
Category I EPIRBs: Designed for offshore and long-distance voyages, these EPIRBs automatically activate upon water immersion, ensuring maximum protection. Category II EPIRBs: Suitable for coastal and inland boaters, these manually activated (or automatically activated if they are removed from their bracket and submerged in water) beacons offer a cost-effective yet reliable emergency signaling solution.
What does a PLB do?
These handheld devices can be activated manually in an emergency, sending your GPS location to search and rescue teams.
How long do EPIRB/PLB batteries last?
EPIRBs typically offer 48+ hours of transmission, while PLBs provide at least 24 hours.
How do activation methods differ?
Category I EPIRBs activate automatically, whereas PLBs and Category II EPIRBs require manual activation.
Do GPS-enabled models help?
GPS-enabled models ensure faster location tracking for quicker rescue responses.