What is the traditional distress call used in boating situations?

The traditional distress call used in boating situations is "MAYDAY." This term is internationally recognized as a distress signal that indicates a life-threatening emergency concerning the safety of a vessel or its occupants. When a mariner uses "MAYDAY," it is understood that immediate assistance is required and forces resources to respond rapidly.

"MAYDAY" is typically communicated three times in succession to differentiate it from other radio traffic, ensuring clear understanding by anyone monitoring. This standardized approach minimizes confusion during critical situations.

While "SOS" is often associated with emergency signals, particularly in Morse code, it is more widely recognized in terms of distress signaling both at sea and on land. Similarly, terms like "HELP" and "EMERGENCY" can still convey the need for assistance, but they lack the same level of international recognition and urgency as "MAYDAY." Thus, in the context of boating distress calls, "MAYDAY" remains the preferred and most effectively understood signal.