Sécurité

A maritime safety message broadcast over radio to convey important but non-urgent navigational or weather-related information.

Sécurité is a term used in maritime communications, particularly over VHF radio, to preface messages that concern the safety of navigation or provide important weather warnings. It is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and is one of three priority levels of communication, the others being “Pan-Pan” (urgent but non-life-threatening situations) and “Mayday” (grave and imminent danger). When a “Sécurité” message is broadcast, it typically involves information that mariners need to be aware of to avoid potential hazards, such as navigational warnings, changes in weather conditions, or the presence of obstacles like floating debris or unlit buoys. 

The message is usually transmitted on a designated working channel after an initial alert on Channel 16, which is the international distress and calling frequency. Mariners hearing a “Sécurité” call are expected to listen carefully and take note of the information, as it may affect their voyage or safety. However, unlike “Mayday” or “Pan-Pan” calls, a “Sécurité” message does not indicate an immediate emergency but rather serves as a precautionary advisory to ensure the safety of vessels in the area.