Navigation and Seamanship

4.2.7.2. Distress signals day

                                                                               

Distress signals

Distress means extreme pain or great danger or difficulty, with a need for immediate assistance. A distress signal is an internationally recognized means for obtaining help . Distress signals take the form of or are commonly made by using radio signals, displaying a visually detected item or illumination, or making an audible sound, from a distance. A distress signal indicates that a person or group of people, ship , aircraft , or other vehicle is threatened by grave and imminent danger and requests immediate assistance.

Following signals are to be used or displayed, either together or separately, by a vessel (or seaplane on the water) in distress requiring assistance from other vessels or from the shore

BY DAY

1. A gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about a minute
2. The International code signal of distress indicated by NC (NC = I am in distress and require immediate assistance)
3. A signal consisting of a square flag having above or below it a ball or anything resembling a ball.
4. Continuous soundings or any fag signaling apparatus
5. Radiotelephone signal consisting of the spoken word “MAY DAY” (Maidez – Freruch wird – meaning come and help)
6. The signal SOS made by radiotelegraphy (save our soul).
7. Orange Distress Flag
8. Radio telephone or telegraph alarm signal (12 dashes/min).
9. Slowly and repeatedly rising and lowering of arms outstretched on either side
10. Signals transmitted by emergency position indicating radio beacons.