What is the proper sequence for issuing a Mayday over the radio, including information to provide?

• A. State 'Mayday' clearly, give location, status, resource type, and actions needed; maintain radio discipline and provide updated information
• B. Shout as loud as possible and repeat once
• C. Only give location and ask for more information
• D. Wait until the incident commander asks for Mayday

Answer: (A)

In a Mayday, the priority is to announce the emergency clearly and quickly provide the information needed for a rapid rescue. Start by stating Mayday clearly so everyone on the channel knows you are in grave danger. Then give your exact location—where you are in the structure, such as building, floor, and room if possible, or a landmark. Next, describe your status so responders understand what you are facing—whether you’re trapped, out of air, injured, or otherwise incapacitated. Identify your resource type, meaning which unit you represent and your role, so the incident command can assign the right kind of help. Finally, state the actions you need, such as immediate rescue by a RIT, air supply or replenishment, or removal from the hazard. As conditions change, provide updates about location, air status, or hazards, while keeping the channel clear of nonessential chatter to maintain radio discipline. This combination of clear declaration, precise location, explicit status, unit identification, and specific rescue needs ensures responders can locate you, understand what’s required, and deploy the right resources quickly.