Looking after your beacon

Store your beacon safely

Make sure you keep your beacon dry and store it appropriately.

Storage

Keep your registration up to date

Keeping your registration details up to date helps search and rescue locate your beacon in the event of an emergency. Please keep your registration details up to date. Updating your registration is free and can be done online through the registration system.

If you've bought or sold a boat, you can update your details on the registration system, complete the AMSA 245 form or contact us.

To report a lost, sold or stolen beacon, update your details on the registration system, or contact us on 1800 406 406.

What are my options for when my battery is due to expire?

Beacon batteries last for approximately 5-10 years. Before your battery reaches its expiry date, you should consider the options to ensure that the beacon will transmit properly in an emergency situation.

Option 1.  Buy a new GPS equipped beacon Why is GPS best?

Note:  If you decide to buy a new beacon, make sure you dispose properly

Option 2.  Contact the beacon manufacturer for battery replacement and servicing options read more for important information about servicing your beacon.

Who is authorised to service my beacon in Australia?

If the beacon battery was replaced or serviced by a non-certified service centre then the beacon is non-compliant for carriage requirements and there is a risk the beacon may not function correctly. Please read more about who is authorised to service my beacon in Australia.

Service your beacon after activation

If you have used your beacon in a distress situation, contact the manufacturer or a certified servicing agent to replace the beacon battery and discuss your servicing options. This is because the battery may be depleted and the beacon may have been damaged during use.  Therefore, the beacon will not be guaranteed to function correctly in another emergency situation.

Test your beacon

Every beacon has a self-test switch. Please ensure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines on how to perform a self-test and how often. Some manufacturers recommend that you self-test the beacon periodically, either once a month, or prior to a planned trip.

Note: Over testing can drain the battery.

For advanced users, see the beacon testing policy.