What action should be taken upon hearing a distress call?

When a distress call is heard, establishing a continuous watch on the appropriate frequencies is crucial. This action allows the person receiving the call to monitor the situation closely, enabling them to provide assistance as needed and to hear any further transmissions from the distressed station. Continuous monitoring ensures that any changes in the situation or further instructions are not missed, which is vital for effective emergency response.

Being attentive on the specified frequencies, such as the international distress frequency, guarantees that help can be coordinated quickly and efficiently, making it one of the primary responsibilities during a distress situation. It supports the principle that all operators should remain alert to the needs of those in distress, thus fostering an effective communication network during emergencies.