Safety at Sea

Our intention is neither to deter people from attempting to cross, nor to encourage them, but rather to provide objective information and to share experiences about risks, rights, and vital safety measures to take at sea. Please always keep in mind that this information might save your life, but it will not make your journey less dangerous!

For twenty years, the EU has been denying visas to most applicants. Many of them wish to emigrate anyway and attempt to cross the sea clandestinely. This crossing constitutes an offence and is very dangerous.

Video Clips – Safety at Sea – from Autumn 2021

I. Crossing the Sea – general Recommendations
In this video clip we share short and summarising information for sea crossings in the Central Mediterranean area: the need for life vests, enough fuel and drinking water, and a satellite phone, and the need to check the weather report. 

II. How to use a Satellite Phone called Thuraya
As mobile phones are not working in the high sea of the central mediterranean area, a satellite phone – usually called Thuraya – is absolutely necessary to be able to alarm in distress situations. In this video clip we explain the use of this life saving instrument for sea crossing and how to find and send a GPS-position.

The Alarm Phone fights for freedom of movement, for the right to escape and for safe passages so that people can migrate without risking their lives!

You are welcome to spread this information to people who might need it.

Please also find more information at Watch The Med and Welcome to Europe.

Alarmphone on X

Today, on 11 October 2026, Alarm Phone turns 12 years old.

Over this time, we have assisted more than 11.000 boats in distress at sea. We will not give up in our collective struggle against death at sea and the EU border regime. Freedom of movement for all!

🆘 ~51 people in distress in the Central Med!

We are in contact with a group fleeing from eastern Libya towards Sicily. They say they have run out of fuel and are drifting east of Malta now. Rescue and #SafePassages for all are needed now!

@HCoastGuard We have lost contact with the people in distress for over 30 hours but fear they are still at sea. We do not know of any rescue activity by either #Greece or #Egypt. Don't let these 37 people perish at sea! We call on the authorities to act without further delay!