It's the Law: Required Equipment

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency.

• Vessels on federally controlled waters must be equipped with visual distress signals. If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, at least three must be carried in the vessel.
• An operator who observes a distress signal must stop and render aid. It is prohibited to display visual distress signals unless assistance is needed.

VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in bright sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible).

Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Orange Smoke Day Signal

Red Meteor Day and Night Signal

Red Flare Day and Night Signal

Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Electric Light Night Signal

Orange Flag Day Signal

Arm Signal Although this signal does not meet VDS equipment requirements, wave your arms to summon help if you do not have other distress signals on board.

Federally Controlled Waters

Vessels must observe federal requirements on these waters:

• Coastal waters
• The Great Lakes (including Lake Michigan and Lake Superior)
• Territorial seas
• Waters which are two miles wide or wider and are connected directly to one of the above