Trouble on the water? Use your radio before you use your cell phone

If you are in trouble in your car, a cell phone can place you in touch with help in the press of a send button. According to the Coast Guard, using your cell phone to call for help in your boat might not be such a great idea.

The WJAR-TV 10 website in southern New England features a story about the Coast Guard’s suggestion you use a radio, not a cell phone, when calling for help from your boat.

According to the story, your boat’s VHF radio has a greater range than a cell phone. Other boaters may hear your distress call on a VHF radio as well.