An Internet solution - improving safety at sea

This proposal describes a simple safety system that could be implemented over the Internet at very low cost. The system would :

1. Benefit all marine users from super tanker captains to canoeists.
   
2. Improve safety for all mariners.
   
3. Reduce emergency services costs.
   
4. Compliment the existing systems and new systems currently being put in place.

The UK government are funding a network of radio stations around the British coast, this system is costing £3 million. This proposal will complement this system at no extra cost, and will add considerable benefits. For details on the existing system go and see the Marine Safety Agencies presentations describing the Global Maritime Distress and Safety and the Digital Selective Calling systems.

Radio Transceiver manufacturers are currently trialing a new generation of radios that will utilise these new systems, unfortunately they are likely to be too expensive for the typical boat user. Their is a critique on the Digital Select Calling system that explains in detail its deficiencies.

By providing real and perceivable benefits to the marine user, both safety and non-safety, it is felt that more marine users would be persuaded to use the DSC & GMDSS safety systems. The system we are proposing offers these benefits.