In SAR phases, what does the 'Alert phase' indicate?

The 'Alert phase' in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations indicates that distress is likely but not yet confirmed. At this stage, there may be concerning signals or indications that a vessel or individual may be in trouble, such as a missed communication or a vessel not arriving at its destination as planned. Recognizing this phase allows search and rescue coordinators to prepare to respond to an emergency that may unfold and to begin gathering resources, conducting searches, or attempting communications with the party in question.

In contrast, the other phases of SAR provide different levels of distress assessment. The imminent distress phase, for instance, indicates that the situation is critical and that immediate action is required. The lost vessel phase confirms that a vessel has been declared missing. The no current distress phase indicates that there is no indication of trouble, which does not align with the Alert phase assessment. Thus, the Alert phase serves as a critical point where the potential for distress prompts a heightened level of monitoring and readiness without confirmation of an emergency.