USCG Exam PracticeRule 37 — Distress Signals
A vessel exhibiting a square flag with a ball (or object resembling a ball) above or below it, combined with flames on the vessel from a burning barrel, is displaying signals under 33 CFR §87.01. Under 33 CFR §87.02, a mariner observing a vessel using these signals for a purpose other than actual distress is subject to which restriction?
- A. No restriction applies provided the signals are used in a designated exercise area
- ✓ The use is prohibited, as these signals are reserved exclusively for indicating distress and need of assistanceCorrect
- C. The use is permitted for training if the Coast Guard is notified 24 hours in advance
- D. The use is permitted provided a simultaneous VHF Channel 16 announcement is made
Why B is correct
33 CFR §87.02 unambiguously prohibits the use or exhibition of any distress signal listed in §87.01 except for the purpose of indicating distress and need of assistance. No exceptions for training, designated areas, or advance notification are provided in §87.02.