Hand held VHF question

The 2 mile ranges makes me dubious as to their capability as safety equipment.  I very often fish where I can't see any other boats (other than my party) and probably couldn't hail any within 2 miles.  It aint a GPRB that's for sure.

Just to add a bit to the antenna discussion. Your antenna height is more important than your wattage for distance. Wattage is more helpful if you are trying to talk over someone else, but that isn't a good idea. I believe a decent large whip will get you out about 7 miles on a boat, a little less on a kayak since it will be lower.

Does anybody know how effective these handheld VHF's are at getting ahold of the Coast Guard in an emergency.... especially in remote places like Big Sur?

Is it okay to do a radio check with the Coast Guard on Ch. 16?

I'm tempted to try it, but I just don't want to get in trouble for doing it.

Excellent question and one that I'd love to know the answer.

Uh, I do know the answer to #2.  No radio checks on #16.

Stuart