Quote:
Originally Posted by Poncho
reading this thread scares the heck out of me because i am new to boat owning. First thing on my winter list is to install a marine radio. I have a hand held radio that I assume works and will be able to get me assistance, god forbid i ever need it. any recommendations on what to install and anything I might need to think about. I have a Parker 1801
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Aside from life jackets and the usual, start with a good GPS Plotter that you can expand to include radar later if you decide you need it. Get a quality VFH with an 8' antenna and mount that up high for longer range. Register for an MSSI number and integrate the VHF and GPS for sending DSC emergency transmissions. With the push of a button, you can send out a distress call with all of your personal information, boat specifics, GPS coordinates, etc. Even emergency contact information for people on shore if you want to list them under your MSSI number.
If your hand held is
water proof, put it along with some other items in a ditch bag (search threads for "whats in a ditch bag") that stays in an extremely accessible location so you can grab it and jump if you have to. If your hand held is not water proof, get a new one that is IPX7 or IPX8 rated and floats. Keep it attached to you if you're fishing alone. Test your hand held on 68 next time you're out by asking for a "radio check on 68". Ask for replies from spacific locations, you'll be surprised how short range hand held radios are. 3-5 miles at best.
Over the winter, I'm replacing my bilge pumps with two 1500GPH pumps. Each pump will have separate solid state automatic switches, one mounted higher than the other to create primary and secondary stage scenario. This will preserve battery life if one pump can handle the water entering. I'm also going to tie in a high water alarm into the secondary switch.