Before you buy a radio ...

Sometime in 2011 FCC regulations will require ALL Fixed Maritime VHF radios to support Digital Selective Calling (DSC).  This means that you will still be able to buy hand helds which do not support DSC.  It is suggested you do not purchase a hand held maritime VHF that does not support DSC.

Maritime Mobile Service Identity numbers.  An MMSI number is like a phone number for your VHF radio.  Digital Selective Calling allows you to call a specific MMSI or group of MMSIs, basically personal (individual) and conference (group) calls.  DSC and MMSI allow a single button to send a distress call containing your unique identifier and GPS coordinates if the unit supports GPS.  MMSI numbers are free and easy to get

http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=mtDsc
http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=mmsi
http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/

Please see the thread in the Safety forum for NWKA MMSI numbers.

Perhaps this could be made a sticky post?

Thanks Demonick, great to be aware of and plan for. 
I pasted this post text and link over at sister site NCKA in the discussion about the radios being monitored by PBers and such in the thread about the 'yak atttack at Bean Hollow from 8/14. I credited you, of course.

Thanks for the info. Maybe I'll put off buying a radio for another year. just kidding
The HX851 looks like it has DSC & GPS waypoint features, is submersible to 3.3 ft, & it floats.