Learn the Basic Boating Sound Signals BY GREG FONZENO
You’re boating across the lake when suddenly you hear a series of beeps from a horn. Why are they honking at you? Should you respond? Are they just saying hello? Sound signals using the boat’s horn, or whistle on a paddle craft, is the primary means of communication on the water. These signals tell others what you intend to do, if there is danger, and if help is needed. If what you want to do is OK with the other boat, that boat should respond with the same signal. There are many signals boaters can use to inform other boaters of danger or intentions. Let’s review some of the basic ones.
Five short blasts.
One prolonged blast (5-6 seconds).
One prolonged blast and two short every two minutes.
The prolonged blast is used for two purposes: to let people know you are leaving your slip, similar to a cruise ship leaving port, and when you are turning into a blind curve. If you can’t see around the corner, another boater can’t see you. A single prolonged blast will get attention and make everyone safer.
Short blasts (1-2 seconds).
Short blasts of various sequences are used for many purposes. One reason is to tell the other boaters which way you are turning or passing. If you are going to pass on the right side of another boat, sound one short blast. The other boater sounds the same signal to say your intention is understood. Likewise, if your intent is to pass on the left side, sound two short blasts. A boat in reverse motion, or backing out of the slip, should sound three short blasts to warn other boaters that you are in reverse.
Five short blasts of the whistle or horn is the danger or doubt signal. If your intent is not OK, the other boat should signal with five short blasts indicating there is doubt on their part or an actual danger. This sound also should be used if you have a person-overboard emergency, or any situation that poses a danger to other boaters near you.
One prolonged blast every two minutes.
This sound should be used anytime your powerboat is moving on the water in fog. It tells other boaters that you are a powerboat and moving nearby. This sound should be used anytime your sailboat is moving on the water in fog. It tells other boaters that you are a sailboat and moving nearby.
Sound signals are required regardless of the type of vessel you use whether a powerboat, sailboat, personal watercraft, paddle boat, or a stand-up-paddle boat. Sound signals may be produced by a horn, whistle, or bell that is audible for one-half mile. Boats smaller than 40 feet must have a horn or whistle. Boats larger than 40 feet must have a bell in addition to a whistle or horn.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
AROUND ACWORTH | October 2021
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