SOUND SIGNALS (For Onboard Whistles, Horns or Bells)
Sound Producing Devices
In instances of reduced visibility or whenever a boat operator needs to signal their intentions or position, a sound producing device is essential. Navigation rules for meeting head-on, crossing and overtaking situations are examples of when sound signals are required. Sound is one of the most effective ways to communicate on the water.
The sound producing device may be a whistle, horn or bell that is audible for one-half mile. Boats less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.) in length, which includes PWC, are required to carry a whistle or horn or some other means to make an efficient sound to signal intentions or positions.
Boats that are 12 meters (39.4 ft.) or more in length are required to carry onboard a whistle or horn, and a bell.
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One short blast (1 second): Shows an intention to direct course of vessel to own starboard (right).
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One short blast (1 second): Shows an intention to overtake. The power driven vessel about to be overtaken shall, if in agreement, sound a similar sound signal. If in doubt the vessel should sound the danger signal. (See number 5 below).
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Two short blasts: Shows intention to direct course of vessel to own port (left).
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Three short blasts: Indicates the vessel's engines are going astern (in reverse).
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Five or more short and rapid blasts: A danger signal used when the other vessel's intentions are not understood or where the other vessel's indicated course is dangerous. When vessels in sight of each other are approaching, and for whatever reason, either vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of the other, or is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken to avoid collision, the vessel in doubt may give at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle.
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Prolonged blast (4 to 6 seconds): Indicates restricted visibility, such as fog. They are also used when a vessel is coming around a blind bend. One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming exiting a slip). This signal should be answered with a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel that may be within hearing around the bend or behind an intervening obstruction. One prolonged plus two short blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailboats under sail alone.
In or near an area of restricted visibility, whether by day or night, a power-driven vessel making way through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes on prolonged blast. A power-driven vessel underway but stopped and making no way through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes two prolonged blasts in succession with an interval of about 2 seconds between them. One prolonged blast followed by two short blasts signals the vessel is not under command, has restricted maneuverability, is a sailing vessel or a fishing vessel. One prolonged blast followed by three short blasts signals the vessel is being towed or pushed.
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If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel, any vessel may make light or sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any authorized signal or may direct a searchlight beam in the direction of danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel. Any light used to attract the attention of another vessel cannot not be one that could be mistaken for any aid to navigation. The use of high intensity intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, should be avoided.
When vessels are not in sight of one another when navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility every vessel must proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven vessel, such as a PWC, should have its engines ready for immediate maneuver. A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel shall determine if a close- quarters situation is developing or risk of collision exists. If so, the operator must take avoiding action in ample time, provided that when such action consists of an alteration of course, the following should be avoided:
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An alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other than for a vessel being overtaken.
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An alteration of course toward a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.
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