Category 2 EPIRB Manual Deployment Guide
There are primarily two types of EPIRBs that you should be familiar with: Category 1 EPIRBs and Category 2 EPIRBs.
You must know two further terms before buying an EPIRB: activation and deployment.
The activation method is the physical way an EPIRB is turned on so that it can start to signal distress. It can be either auto or manual and you absolutely must know how yours activates.
The deployment method can also be called the release method. It’s the way your device is freed from its housing or cradle. Again this can be done automatically or manually.
Comparison of Category 1 and Category 2 EPIRBs
The key difference between Category I and II EPIRBs is the method by which they are deployed.
Category I EPIRBs are housed in a bracket that automatically releases the beacon when submerged (usually between 1.5 to 4 meters depth), should your vessel sink. They can also be deployed manually and are typically mounted in a location that facilitates both automatic and manual release.
Category II EPIRBs require manual release, meaning you need to physically deploy the EPIRB yourself. They can also be automatically or manually activated.
| Feature | Category I | Category II |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Automatic or manual | Automatic or manual |
| Deployment | Auto-release bracket (float-free) or manual | Requires manual release |
| Designed for | Commercial vessels, serious offshore boaters | Coastal boaters |
When picking an EPIRB for your boat, consider factors such as the size of your vessel, the typical number of crew, and the voyages you plan to undertake.
Features and Specifications of Category 2 EPIRBs
Category 2 EPIRBs are essential safety devices designed to signal distress in life-threatening situations at sea. They are characterized by manual deployment and either automatic or manual activation.
