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Sound Signaling Devices

All boats less than 12 meters in length must carry an efficient sound producing device which can be heard for one half mile. Most often these are whistles or horns. Boats over 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length must also carry a bell. The rules of the road, both inland and international, specify that boats give sound signals to communicate intentions in heavy traffic, and to alert other skippers of your presence in fog, heavy rain or other times of restricted visibility.

Visual Distress Signals

Most recreational boats, and all boats operating in coastal waters, Great Lakes and the high seas, must be equipped with visual distress signals. These signals must be U. S. Coast Guard approved and are categorized for day use, night use or combination day and night. These signaling devices must be in serviceable condition, stowed where readily accessible and marked with a date showing serviceable life. Make sure they have not expired. (Distress flares, smoke flares and meteor rockets have expiration dates 42 months after the date of manufacture.)

The U. S. Coast Guard regulations prohibit display of distress signals except when a distress actually exists. You should only use distress signals when help is close enough to see the signal. The U. S. Coast Guard recognizes both pyrotechnic and non-pyrotechnic devices.

	Pyrotechnic red flares, hand-held or aerial
	Launchers for aerial red meteors or parachute flares
	Pyrotechnic orange smoke, hand-held or floating
Non-Pyrotechnic Devices Include:
	Orange distress flag
	Electric distress signal

General Information about flares

• Read and understand the instructions
• Note expiration date and replace as necessary
• Hold lighted flares downwind and away from the boat
• Do not point them at anyone and hold away from your body
• Store in a watertight container such as a zip-lock bag
• Store where readily accessible and ready to use
• Use only in case of an emergency

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