USCG Exam PracticeRule 37 — Distress Signals
A vessel's master wants to attract the attention of another vessel without indicating distress. Which action is authorized under the Rules?
- A. Slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms outstretched to each side
- ✓ Directing the beam of a searchlight toward the danger in a way that does not embarrass any vesselCorrect
- C. Displaying an orange flag meeting the standards of 46 CFR 160.072
- D. Sounding a continuous blast on the fog-signaling apparatus
Why B is correct
33 CFR §83.36 authorizes directing a searchlight toward the direction of danger to attract attention, provided it does not embarrass any vessel. Raising and lowering outstretched arms (33 CFR §87.01(k)) and a continuous fog signal (33 CFR §87.01(b)) are official distress signals and may not be used for mere attention-getting.
Cited:33 CFR §83.36