LARSON Bass - Audible Signals

NAVIGATION RULES AND AIDS
SECTION
6
© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co. 6 - 2 l Bass
Regulations require that navigational lights be clearly lit and properly displayed at
all times between sunset and sunrise, and always when operating in reduced
visibility. Where applicable, lights must appear on the sides, stern, masthead and
all-around positions.
All navigational rules apply at night, but speed is restricted on many waterways.
Night boaters must operate at a slow, safe speed and stay clear of all boats,
regardless of which boat has right-of-way.
Protect your night vision by avoiding bright lights. If possible, have a passenger
help keep watch for other boats, water hazards and aids to navigation.
The size, speed and direction of other vessels are determined at night by white,
green and red running lights.
• A green light indicates the starboard side of the boat. Generally, if you see
a green light on another boat, you have the right-of-way. Hold your course.
• A red light indicates the port side of the boat. Generally, if you see a red
light on another boat, they have right-of-way and you must yield your
course.
AUDIBLE SIGNALS
It is not necessary to sound a signal every time a boat is nearby. It is typical for
commercial boat operators to signal their intention, using a whistle, horn or bell, to
avoid potentially confusing or hazardous situations. Privileged boat operators
customarily signal first, then the yielding boat operators return the same signal to
acknowledge they understand and will comply. Use the danger signal (five or more
short, rapid blasts) if intent is not clear.
Use the following signal blasts early enough so other boaters notice and
understand them:
AUDIBLE DISTRESS SIGNAL DEFINITION
One long blast
Warning signal (coming out of slip or passing
astern)
One short blast Pass on port side
Two short blasts Pass on starboard side
Three short blasts Engine(s) in reverse
Five or more short blasts Danger signal