Here is a distress call script I ran across - good to print out and laminate to keep on boat - it's easy to get flustered when things are happening fast around you. Anyone have revisions/additions/improvements?

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EMERGENCY DISTRESS CALL INSTRUCTIONS

Here's the procedure to follow. Transmit in this order:

1. Tune your VHF to channel 16.

2. Say: "MAYDAY" , "MAYDAY" , "MAYDAY"

3. Say:
"this is (name the boat)."
"this is (name the boat)."
"this is (name the boat)."


4. Give position by latitude and longitude or by bearing and distance to a well-known landmark or navigational aid, or in any terms that will assist a responding station in locating the vessel in distress.

Include any pertinent information, such as vessel course, speed and destination.

5. Indicate the nature of distress (sinking, fire, etc.).

6. Indicate the kind of assistance desired.

7. Describe your:
boat size
rig type
color
# of persons aboard

8. End with "over."
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To contact local Coast Guard Station from a cell phone, press: *CG (tip from Nils C)
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Wear a pfd in any even remotely questionable situations, and also always at night. Too easy for things to happen quickly.

If yours is uncomfortable or awkward to wear, look into the newer, more low-profile, comfortable vest-type pfds. They are also good for warmth and to break the wind.

Be really safe and attach a whistle and a strobe to it (thank you Riptide for that tip).