Boating Coach
Communication and distressQuestion 356 of 566

Why is a cell phone a poor choice for a distress call on the water?

  1. It cannot call any number on the water.
  2. Its call will not alert nearby vessels.
  3. It always has a weaker signal than a radio.
  4. It sends your position to the wrong centre.
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Correct answer: Its call will not alert nearby vessels.

A radio call reaches the Coast Guard and nearby boats. A phone call reaches only the person you dial.

Source: Safe Boating Guide (TP 511E, 2026), Cell phones, page 49

All questionsPractice the topic "Communication and distress"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026