It's the Law: Required Equipment for Your Vessel

Sound Producing Devices

A sound producing device is required on all waters. It is essential during periods of reduced visibility. It must be audible for at least one-half mile.

Sound Signals

Some common sound signals that you should be familiar with as a recreational boater are:

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 “My engines are in reverse.”
• If the sound signals discussed in this section are directed at your vessel and you are in agreement with the proposed action then you are required to respond with the same signal.

Warning

• Five (or more) short, rapid blasts are used to signal danger or to signal that you do not understand or agree with the other boater's intentions.
• One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip)

Restricted Visibility

• One prolonged blast at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by powerboats when underway.
• One prolonged plus two short blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailboats under sail alone.