What information should be included in a distress message?

A distress message is a critical communication that must convey specific information to ensure a swift and effective response from rescue services. Identification of the station in distress is essential because it helps rescue organizations understand which vessel is in trouble and allows them to initiate the appropriate search and rescue procedures.

The identification of the station usually includes the name of the vessel, its call sign, and sometimes the position from which the distress message is being sent. This information is crucial because it aids in confirming the identity of the vessel involved, decreases ambiguity, and facilitates quicker action since rescuers can focus their efforts on the correct location.

While the other options contain some relevant information, they do not represent the core requirement of a distress message. Weather conditions might be useful but are not mandatory. The time of day is also not a critical element as it can be inferred from other factors. Similarly, while the presence of onboard cargo can be relevant to the safety of the crew and the environmental impact in case of a sinking, it is not necessary for the initial distress message. The key is that the identification of the station in distress directly informs rescuers about who and what they are responding to, making it the most appropriate answer.