What is the purpose of the SECURITE call?

The SECURITE call serves the specific purpose of communicating safety information regarding potential hazards or navigational information that may impact vessel operations. This type of communication is essential for maintaining safety at sea, as it alerts mariners to relevant information they need to be aware of, such as the presence of hazards to navigation, warning of ongoing operations, or updates on traffic conditions in a particular area. This protocol is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), whereby mariners use secured methods to ensure that vital information is disseminated effectively, thus improving maritime safety for all.

This is distinct from distress situations, which are conveyed through Mayday calls, signifying immediate assistance is needed. Weather updates, while important, are not the primary aim of a SECURITE call, and would typically be communicated through different channels or requests directed towards specific weather services rather than a general safety alert.