What action should NOT be taken with an EPIRB during an emergency?

The recommended action during an emergency with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is to leave the device activated once it has been turned on. This is crucial because an EPIRB is designed to continuously transmit a distress signal to alert search and rescue services of your location. Turning it off periodically would interrupt this vital communication, potentially delaying or preventing rescue.

Repositioning the EPIRB regularly is generally advisable if your circumstances change, as it ensures optimal signal transmission, especially if the maritime conditions are affecting its visibility. Monitoring its signal strength can also be beneficial to ensure it is functioning properly and transmitting clearly, but these actions should not interfere with the device's primary function: continuous distress signal transmission.

Thus, maintaining the EPIRB in an activated state, rather than turning it off intermittently, is essential for effective emergency management and the safety of those in distress.