Did you have your EPIRB on you then?
Yes, I voyage with an EPIRB. Absolutely. But I also sail a 48’ steel boat that is extremely rugged, I only sail the ocean routes during the optimum time of year, I carry back up comms not reliant on the mast (a handheld orbcomm), enough flares from pop ups to 25mm for ten yachts, a top raft and hand operated water maker, etc etc etc.
Mainly, I don’t go into areas/seasons known to be 90% gales and huge waves. Like the Southern Ocean in winter.
Neither does any other responsible sailor.
I’ve made all my voyages with no fuss and no muss, and no EPIRBs activated. And if I was dismasted, I’d jury cut away and jury rig, and not just push the button.