What word is used to begin each transmission during a distress situation?

In a distress situation, the term “Mayday” is the internationally recognized distress signal used in maritime and aviation communications to indicate an immediate danger to life or property. It is a critical protocol in emergency situations and must be repeated three times, “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday,” followed by the name of the vessel and relevant details about the emergency.

Using "Mayday" establishes that the transmission is urgent and that immediate assistance is required, alerting all nearby vessels and authorities that the situation is critical. This protocol ensures that the message is taken seriously and that the proper emergency response is initiated quickly.

The other choices, while they may convey urgency, do not have the same level of recognition or protocol as "Mayday" in emergency communications. Therefore, starting a distress transmission with "Mayday" is essential and standardizes the communication for effective responses from rescuers.