As members of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, our communications procedures follow the Allied Communications Publication Communications Instructions Radiotelephone Procedures ACP125(F). This document specifies communications procedures for the Armed Forces of the Allied Nations.

The procedures that we use may seem a bit formal and stilted, but are necessary for clear and concise communications. Because many members of the boating public use poor radio procedures, it is easy for us to fall into bad habits.  By reviewing and practicing proper procedures we will not only sound professional on the air, but will set an example for others to follow.

Here are some key elements that you should remember as a radio operator:

1. Method of Speech. The key words to remember are Rhythm, Speed, Volume and Pitch (RSVP). Rhythm. Use short sentences divided into sensible phrases which maintain a natural rhythm. Do not speak word by word. Where pauses occur, release the mic button to minimize transmission time and permit stations to break in when necessary.
   
   
2. Speed. Speak slightly slower than for normal conversation. Where a message is to be written down by the recipients, or in difficult conditions, extra time should be allowed to compensate for the receiving station experiencing the worst conditions. Increasing or decreasing the length of pauses between phrases, as opposed to altering the gaps between words, easily adjusts speed of transmission; the latter will create an unnatural, halted style of speech, which is difficult to understand.
   
   
3. Volume. Your volume should be as for normal conversation. Shouting causes distortion.
   
   
4. Pitch. Your voice should be pitched slightly higher than for normal conversation to improve clarity.
   
   
5. Calling Procedure. Always say the station you are calling followed by your call sign. Nothing sounds more unprofessional than the often heard, “Leaky Tiki to Water Wagon.”
   
   
6. General Procedures. Just like an actor, be confident in what you are going to say, before you say it. Practice new procedures by saying them out loud until your speech and speed are proper.
   
   
7. Radio Guard. When Sector Portland, is maintaining your radio communications guard, they will set a timer to remind them to check with you every 30 minutes. It is easier for them to make the call each vessel in turn for the ops and position check. Be prepared for their call by knowing your situation and position.
   
   
8. Use Prowords. Procedure words are words and phrases with standardized meanings. They are used to speed communications and convey precise meaning. The most commonly used prowords are: THIS IS, OVER. ROGER, WAIT, WAIT OUT, and OUT. A complete lists of the prowords and their meanings are in the references cited below. Words common to other forms of radio communications, like: 10-4, Go Ahead, Clear, and “Got your ears on?” will signify to all who are listening that you don’t know proper radio procedure. They should never be used.
   
   
9. Know the Phonetic Alphabet. Often when radio conditions are poor or strangely spelled vessel names must be transmitted, you are going to need to use the phonetic alphabet. This will be no time to learn it. A good way to learn it is by reading license plates phonetically while you are driving.
   
   
10. Keep it Short. In an emergency situation the radio channels can quickly become overcrowded. Therefore it is good practice to minimize radio traffic as much as possible. Even though we do not pass secure radio traffic, short transmissions make it more difficult for those using scanners to intercept our messages. Do not use names or other personal references on the air. Use cell phones to pass this kind of information or to resolve issues.
    
    
11. Maintain a Radio Watch. If you are on patrol, either Sector Portland or AUXCOM has your radio guard. This means they are listening on your assigned channel and watching out for you. If you do not report in they will initiate a “Lost Comms” procedure which will tie up additional resources up to an including an expensive and embarrassing helicopter search.
    
    
12.  Maintain Your Radio. Everyone knows that electrons and water do not get along. Moisture can work its way into coaxial cable and connectors and reduce your radio signal to useless noise. Note the performance of your radio by how signals sound at different distances. Ask other vessels for radio checks. If your signal or reception degrades, have your radio, antenna and coaxial cable checked.

References:
 

1. Allied Communications Publication Communications Instructions Radiotelephone Procedures ACP125(F).http://www.nor.com.au/community/sarc/acp125~1.pdf
   
   
2. Auxiliary Specialty Course Communications (AUXCOM) study guide http://www.cgaux.info/g_ocx/training/AuxCom/COMDTPUB%20P16794.32B.pdf
   
   
3. Boating Safety and Seamanship Manual, Lesson 10 (Your Boat’s Radio).