| Crossposting is not considered good behavior in newsgroups. Remember, any
answer you get is also crossposted, unless the responder takes the extra
step to remove the groups you have added. Now, as to your question: Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in
the event of an emergency. VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in
bright sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night
signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic
(non-combustible). Vessels on federally-controlled waters must be equipped with U.S. Coast
Guard-approved visual distress signals. All vessels, regardless of length
or type, are required to carry night signals when operating between sunset
and sunrise. Most vessels must carry day signals also; exceptions to the
requirement for day signals are: * Recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length
* Non-motorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length
* Manually-propelled vessels VDSs must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, in serviceable condition, and
readily accessible. If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must be carried in the
vessel. The following combinations of signals are examples of VDSs that could be
carried on board to satisfy U.S. Coast Guard requirements: * Three handheld red flares (day and night)
* One handheld red flare and two red meteors (day and night)
* One handheld orange smoke signal (day), two floating orange smoke
signals (day), and one electric light (night only) It is prohibited to display visual distress signals while on the water
unless assistance is required to prevent immediate or potential danger to
persons on board a vessel. This came from: http://www.boat-ed.com/ |
