Visual Distress Signals
Posted by Boating Laws - 26/01/09 at 10:01 pmVisual Distress Signals
Visual distress signals are required to be carried by all vessels when operating in coastal waters. They must be legibly marked with an approval number, readily accessible, serviceable, and with an expiration date. Vehicles like boats are not really required to bring day signal but must have night signals when operating at nighttime. There are two types of devices that carry visual distress signals namely pyrotechnic devices and non-pyrotechnic devices that include orange distress flag, and electric distress light.
Pyrotechnic devices that carry visual distress signals are selected in a minimum of three as required. These are to be used as three signals for day use and three signals for night. Some of the devices can serve both the day and night purpose. It is recommended that the pyrotechnic are stored in dry and cool places. Examples of pyrotechnic devices are red flare and parachute flare that are handheld and can be used for day and night. The red meteor is also for day and night use but is not handheld. Another is the orange smoke signal that is handheld and for day only. Meanwhile, the floating orange smoke signal is thrown in the water surface and for day use only. Non-pyrotechnic devices that bring visual distress signals must also meet the same conditions as those pyrotechnic ones. The orange distress flag is for day use only and must be 3×3 feet with a black square and ball on an orange background. It is most recognizable when attached in a stick and waved when used. Moreover, there is also the electric distress light that is use for night only. It automatically flashes the SOS signal that is internationally accepted.
