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Walmer Lifeboat crew to receive VHF radio training - Feb 2008

Justin, Emma, Martyn, Colin, Andy H, Jim aka 'Chad' and Dave show off their RNLI radio course certificates following 6 nights of VHF radio training.

An RNLI mobile training unit visited Walmer for two weeks in February 2008 to provide VHF radio training for members of the crew that needed their Short Range Radiotelephone Operator's Certificate (SRC). The SRC is the operator's license required to operate the VHF transceiver and the VHS DSC equipment fitted to RNLI lifeboats and other vessels.

To obtain the certificate, crew members needed to pass both theoretical and practical tests demonstrating:

A general knowledge of radio communications within the Maritime Mobile Service.
A detailed practical knowledge of the VHF radio installation and the use of the equipment in practice.
The purpose and use of Digital Selective Calling, (DSC), facilities.
A knowledge of the operational procedures of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
A knowledge of the practical operation of the GMDSS sub-systems and equipment, (as appropriate to vessels not covered by the Safety Of Life At Sea agreement, otherwise known as SOLAS).