Studies on radiocommunications for emergency situations and for ensuring safety of life represent a major responsibility of the ITU Radiocommunication Sector. The Radio Regulations (RR) contains numerous provisions for those services associated with distress and safety communications, such as the maritime, aeronautical and radiodetermination services. In addition, there exist many texts (ITU-R Recommendations, Reports, Handbooks) developed by the Radiocommunication Study Groups that have a direct bearing on prediction, detection and radiocommunications relating to disasters and emergencies. These address aspects of spectrum management, such as the protection of safety services from unwanted emissions, as well as providing information on the technical characteristics, spectrum requirements, channelling plans and operational aspects of systems used by services that play a safety of life role.