Part of owning a boat means being aware of appropriate distress signals and general safety measures needed when out on the water. While the need for distress signals is unlikely, it’s the skipper’s responsibility to be aware of the proper signs of requiring assistance so they can attract attention when in trouble. When it comes to heading out on the water, boat owners should always make sure their vessel is in good maintenance, and any boat repairs carried out by a licensed repair centre. If trouble strikes there are many different signals that the skipper can choose from, depending on which is most appropriate to the situation. These are:
Using Flares, Smoke Signals, and Rockets
Rockets, or shells that are similar to fireworks that are thrown into the air in separate intervals. If other boats or aircraft are in the area, an orange smoke flare, or a red hand held flare night time can be used. Flares can range in their visibility. For a parachute flare 25-35 nautical miles is the accepted distance for these to be seen during night when there is good visibility. Hand flares attract attention of up to 5-10 nautical miles at night. Boaties should take note: misuse of flares attracts significant penalties, including costs of labour, risk incurred and other loss caused from the use of flares.
Other ways boaties can attract attention during times of distress include:
• An orange sheet with the letter ‘V’ should be displayed as it can attract the attention of other boats and aircraft.
• Regular sounding of internationally recognised S O S distress signal. (••• – – – •••)
• Spoken word ‘mayday’ over marine radio.
• Repeatedly slowly raising outstretched arms up and down by your side
• Sounding of any marine fog horns repeatedly
Distress signals should always only be used in times of actual distress. Don’t practice any of these when out on the actual water unless you and the crew are actually in trouble, as you’ll have a lot of explaining to do. Stay tuned to Holt Marine’s News and Information page for more for more safety advice. For Brisbane boat repairs or boat accessories, call us (07) 3353 1928