In what situation would an EPIRB typically be activated?

An Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is primarily designed to assist with maritime search and rescue operations. It is activated in situations where a vessel is in distress, particularly during accidents at sea. This device transmits a distress signal, which can be received by rescue coordination centers, allowing them to quickly pinpoint the location of the distress and mobilize search and rescue efforts.

While natural disasters can indeed prompt the use of various emergency response tools, they are not the direct function of an EPIRB, as it is specifically tailored for maritime emergencies. Entering a national park does not warrant the activation of an EPIRB since it is not related to watercraft or nautical emergencies. Lastly, encountering wildlife can pose risks, but it does not involve maritime distress signals and would not typically trigger an EPIRB. Therefore, the best context for EPIRB activation is during an accident at sea, making it the correct choice.