MayDay

An internationally recognised distress signal used in voice communication to indicate a grave or imminent, life-threatening emergency at sea.

The term “Mayday” is a critical part of maritime communication, originating from the French phrase “m’aider,” which means “help me.” It is used exclusively in situations where there is an immediate danger to life or the vessel, such as sinking, fire, or man overboard. When a Mayday call is made, it is broadcast over the ship’s radio on the emergency frequency, typically VHF Channel 16 (156.8 MHz), which is monitored by coastguards and other vessels. The call is repeated three times (“Mayday, Mayday, Mayday”) to ensure clarity and to distinguish it from less urgent communications. 

A Mayday call must include essential information such as the vessel’s name, position, the nature of the distress, and any other relevant details that could assist rescuers. It is the most urgent type of distress call and takes precedence over all other radio traffic. Once a Mayday is declared, all other vessels and stations in the vicinity are required to maintain radio silence unless they can assist. 

Mayday is part of a broader system of maritime distress signals, which also includes “Pan-Pan” for urgent but non-life-threatening situations and “Securité” for navigational warnings. The use of Mayday is governed by international regulations, and misuse of the term is considered a serious offence, as it can divert critical resources from real emergencies.

From the French, M’aider.