In periods of reduced visibility or whenever a vessel operator needs to signal his or her intentions or position, a sound producing device is essential. Know the rules for meeting head-on, crossing, and overtaking situations. The sound producing device may be a whistle, horn, or bell that is audible for 1/2 mile. All vessels on state and federally controlled waters must have a sound producing device to communicate.
Common Sound Signals
Some common sound signals that you should be familiar with as a recreational boater are:
- A short blast, lasting one second.
- A prolonged blast lasting 4-6 seconds.
Changing direction
- One short blast tells other boaters, “I intend to pass you on my port (left side).”
- Two short blasts tell other boaters, “I intend to pass you on my starboard (right) side.”
- Three short blasts tell other boaters, “I am backing up.”
Restricted Visibility
- One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip).
- Five or more short rapid blasts signal danger, or signal that you do not understand or that you disagree with the other boater’s intentions.