A signal is sent to a nearby satellite, then on to a monitoring station who will then pass on to the country’s search and rescue authority. This may take several hours. In Australia, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) will initiate the search and rescue. Generally, they will attempt to make contact with the registered user of the EPIRB to confirm the emergency is an actual event. They may also attempt to contact listed Emergency Contacts to verify user details including travel plans if unknown. They may also contact Nomad Outback Australia as the registered owner of the EPIRB. It is important that Contact details, emergency contact details and travel plans are provided so as to ensure rescue authorities can focus efforts quickly to the right area and people. Users should be prepared with a plan to sustain life as best as possible until help arrives.
