What type of signal does an EPIRB transmit when activated?

An Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is specifically designed to transmit distress signals when activated. When a vessel is in distress, the EPIRB sends out a signal that includes information about the beacon's location via satellite communication systems. This distress signal is intended to alert search and rescue authorities, enabling them to quickly locate and assist the vessel in need.

The distress signal transmitted by an EPIRB usually operates on the 406 MHz frequency, which is monitored by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. This system provides accurate location information to rescue services, which is critical in emergencies where time is of the essence.

The other options do not accurately reflect the function of an EPIRB. Regular communication signals, navigational safety alerts, and weather forecast alerts serve different purposes that are not related to distress situations, making them unsuitable answers for what an EPIRB transmits when activated.