An Emergency Position Indicating Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a worthwhile investment for anyone heading offshore, providing peace of mind and assurance and in the worst case scenario, it could save lives. It is therefore vital to ensure it is up to date, as with all safety equipment, advise the RYA.

From 01February 2009, the 121.5/243 MHz satellite processing service will be terminated. All EPIRBs and PLBs that transmit on 121.5/243 MHz will cease to be monitored.

RYA Cruising Manager Stuart Carruthers explains: "All modern beacons transmitting on 406 MHz, will not be affected by the change.

However some of the older ones transmit on 121.5/243 MHz and following a number of issues and the negative impact caused by large numbers of false alerts on SAR Services, the decision was taken to discontinue monitoring this frequency.

The important thing is that people check their beacons and make sure that they are not redundant. From a safety point of view, this is paramount."

For further information visit www.mcga.gov.uk where the MCA's Marine Guidance Notice will give you a full overview of the changes.