Rule 34. MANEUVERING AND WARNING SIGNALS a. When the vessels are in sight of each other, a power-driven vessel underway, maneuvering as permitted by these Rules, must indicate its maneuver by signals given by a whistle, the following

Rule 36. SIGNALS FOR ATTRACTING ATTENTION Any vessel, when necessary to attract the attention of another vessel, may give light or sound signals, but such as could not be mistaken for signals prescribed by these Rules, or may direct

Rule 37. DISTRESS SIGNALS When a ship is in distress and requires assistance, she shall use or exhibit the signals described in Appendix IV hereto.

CHAPTER 18 NAVIGATION IN CONDITIONS OF LIMITED VISIBILITY 260. The requirements established by this chapter apply to all ships and convoys, with the exception of ships with a main engine with a power of less than 55 kilowatts and (or) a gross tonnage of less than 80 register tons and

Sound signals, their types and meanings CHAPTER 1 GENERAL SIGNALS Sound signal number Sound signal Meaning of the sound signal 1 One long sound “Attention” or “When approaching the berth of a passenger ship” 2 One short sound “I am changing my course

CHAPTER 2 SIGNALS IN LIMITED VISIBILITY CONDITIONS Sound signal number Sound signal Meaning of the sound signal 18 One long sound “Single vessel in motion” 19 One long and two short sounds with an interval of at least 2 minutes “Convoys”

Chapter 5 Light and sound signals Tip No. 44 If you want to say thank you, for example, for letting you pass, flash your emergency lights. Drivers of different cars on the road can communicate with each other using light signals. One of the main signals is that the

Tip No. 51 If, due to limited visibility, it is difficult to make a turn and there is no traffic light, and there is no time to wait, you need to “lean out” at a very low speed and try, without exposing your car to heavy traffic on the main road, to assess the situation and at a convenient moment

Part D concentrates on the requirements relating to the issuance of information and warning sound and light signals from ships.

Some of them can only be used in good visibility when ships are in sight of each other (maneuvering signals), while others are intended solely to warn oncoming ships in conditions of limited visibility (fog signals).

They turned out to be combined into one part due to the fact that both signals are mainly sound.

However, given the insufficiently high efficiency of sound signals given during maneuvering, the new COLREGs are allowed to be duplicated using light signals.

In connection with the decision taken to move the distress signal from the main text of the COLREGs to Annex IV, Part B, a new Rule 37 has been included, obliging the ship to use these signals in the event of distress.

Rule 32 - DEFINITIONS

Rule 32 - DEFINITIONS

(a) The word “whistle” means any sound signaling device capable of producing the prescribed sounds and complying with the technical requirements listed in Appendix III to these Rules.

(b) The term "short sound" means a sound lasting about 1 second.

(c) The term “sustained sound” means a sound lasting from 4 to 6 seconds.

Commentary on Rule 32

A COMMENT

This Rule includes definitions of common terms and words that are used in Part B of COLREG-72. 1. The definition of the word “whistle” given in paragraph (a) of Rule 32 is slightly different from what was previously in the Rules.
The changes made are not only editorial in nature. COLREG-72 defines detailed and specific technical requirements for the whistle, relating to its sound frequency, sound intensity, location of the sound signaling installation and a number of other issues. All of them are given in Appendix III to the COLREGS. Rule 32, paragraph (a), while defining the word “whistle”, emphasizes that it must conform to the technical requirements listed in Annex III and be capable of producing the prescribed sounds.
The nature of the sounds produced by the whistle is defined in paragraph 1 (a) of Appendix III, according to which the fundamental frequency of the signal must be in the range from 70 to 700 Hz. In paragraph 1 (b), the sound frequencies of whistles installed on ships are differentiated depending on their length.
On large vessels 200 m or more in length, the fundamental frequency of the whistle should be as low as possible and range from 70 to 200 Hz. Vessels between 75 and 200 m in length must have a higher-pitched whistle with a frequency between 130 and 350 Hz. On ships less than 75 m in length, an even higher frequency whistle must be installed, the fundamental frequency of its signal must lie in the range from 250 to 700 Hz.

2. The definitions of the terms “short sound” and “long sound” given in paragraphs (b) and (c) of Rule 32 fully correspond to those previously used in the Rules.

Rule 33 - SOUND SIGNALING EQUIPMENT

Rule 33 - SOUND SIGNALING EQUIPMENT

(a) A vessel of 12 m or more in length shall be equipped with a whistle and bell, and a vessel with a length of 100 m or more shall be provided with a gong, the tone and sound of which cannot be confused with that of the bell. Whistle, bell and gong. must comply with the requirements of Annex III to these Rules. The bell and/or gong may be replaced by other devices having the same appropriate sound characteristics, and it must always be possible to give the prescribed signals manually

(b) A vessel less than 1 2 m in length is not required to have the sound signaling devices prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, and if such a vessel does not have them, she must be provided with other means of giving an effective sound signal.

Commentary on Rule 33

A COMMENT

Rule 33 specifies the general requirements for the equipping of different vessels with means that can be used to give the sound signals prescribed in Part B. According to COLREG-72, all vessels underway, including sailing and towed ones, must give signals with a whistle.
The use of a fog horn, given its insufficient efficiency, is now not provided for by the Rules, and all vessels 1-2 m in length or more must be equipped with a whistle. This requirement applies equally to sailing and towed vessels, including non-propelled lighters and barges.

Rule 33, with regard to the provision of ships with sound signaling devices, establishes two main groups of ships with a length of 1 2 m or more and ships with a length of less than 1 2 m. Vessels of the latter group are not required to have installed sound signaling devices, but at the same time they are still not exempt from the need to sound an effective sound signal. For this purpose they may use any means of sound signaling.

All ships with a length of 1 2 m or more must be equipped with a whistle and a bell, which are the main ship's sound signaling devices. Paragraph (a) of the Rule in question also establishes that ships whose length is 100 m or more must additionally have a gong, sound characteristics (tone and sound) which should differ from those of the bell installed on the ship.

Rule 32 emphasizes that all sound signaling devices (whistle, bell and gong) provided by it must have technical characteristics that comply with the requirements of Annex III to the COLREGS. It should be noted that the sound characteristics of the bell and gong are not defined in this Annex, although they are referred to in the text of the COLREGs, in particular Rule 33.
This is one of the shortcomings of these Rules. During their development, despite repeated attempts, it was not possible to formulate agreed upon requirements regarding the sound characteristics of the bell and gong.
This has led to some uncertainty in the requirements of paragraph (a) of Rule 33, which states the need for differences in the sound characteristics of the bell and gong used on board, as well as the possibility of replacing them with other devices having the same sound characteristics.

As already noted in the comments to Rule 32, COLREG-72 differentiates the requirements for the whistle frequency depending on the size of the vessel. For this purpose, three groups have been established: ships with a length of 200 m or more, ships with a length of 75 to 200 m and ships with a length of less than 75 m. Clause 1 (c) of Appendix III also defines the requirements for the permissible sound strength of the whistle, taking into account the possibility of placing sound signals devices on ships of various sizes.

These requirements are divided into four groups of ships. The first three correspond to those indicated above, and the fourth group includes vessels less than 20 m in length. Based on the established frequency of the whistle and the permissible strength of its sound, the possible hearing range of the whistle is determined for each group of vessels.
For vessels over 200 m in length it is 2 miles, from 75 to 200 m - 1.5 miles, from 20 to 75 m - 1 mile and for ships less than 20 m in length - 0.5 miles. The given data are typical and have a 90% probability in a quiet atmosphere and subject to average noise levels in the listening areas.
The actual audibility range of whistles installed on ships can in some cases be significantly greater, and sometimes significantly less in the presence of strong winds or high noise levels in the listening areas.
As can be seen from the above data, based on recent extensive research into the propagation of sound in the atmosphere, in most cases the audibility range of a whistle can be expected to be less than 2 miles, although sometimes it can be more than 2 miles. Only the sound signal from ships over 200 m in length can be reliably heard at a distance of 2 miles, but even then under the condition of a calm atmosphere.

When considering Rule 33, you should pay attention to the fact that, according to paragraph (a), ships are allowed to use other devices instead of the usual bells and gongs, provided that the appropriate sound characteristics are ensured. These devices can be understood as any automatic devices that allow the ship's crew to be freed from the need to manually submit the required signals. However, when using such devices on a ship, it must be possible to provide the required sound signals manually.

Considering the difficulty or practical impossibility of equipping small vessels with the sound signaling devices prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, an exception is made for vessels less than 12 m in length, and paragraph (b) of Rule 33 provides for the provision of such vessels with other means of giving an effective sound signal. The latter can include any autonomous sound-producing devices, such as, for example, a hand or wind horn, a mouth whistle, metal and other objects that produce sounds when struck, etc.

Rule 34 - MANEUVERING AND WARNING SIGNALS

Rule 34 - MANEUVERING AND WARNING SIGNALS

(a) When the vessels are in sight of each other, a power-driven vessel underway, maneuvering as permitted by these Rules, shall indicate her maneuver by signaling on her whistle as follows: one short blast means “I am altering my course.” to the right"; two short blasts mean “I am altering my course to port”; three short sounds means “My thrusters are in reverse.”

(b) A vessel may accompany the sound signals prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule by light signals repeated throughout the maneuver: (1) these light signals must have the following meaning:

one flash means “I am altering my course to starboard”;

two flashes mean “I am changing my course to the left”;

three flashes mean “My thrusters are in reverse”;

the duration of each flash should be about 1 s, the interval between flashes should be about 1 s, the interval between successive signals should be at least 10 s; (111) The light used to give such a signal, if installed, shall be an all-round white light visible at a distance of not less than 5 miles and shall comply with the requirements of Appendix I to these Regulations.

(c) When vessels are in sight of each other in a narrow channel or fairway: (1) a vessel intending to overtake another vessel under Rule 9(e)(1) shall indicate her intention by the following signals on her whistle. :

two long blasts followed by one short blast, which mean “I intend to overtake you on the starboard side,”

two long blasts followed by two short blasts, which mean “I intend to overtake you on the port side”;

(i) the vessel intended to be overtaken shall, acting in accordance with Rule 9(e)(1), indicate its consent by sounding the following whistle in the sequence indicated: one long blast, one short blast, one long blast and one short blast.

(j) When vessels within sight of each other approach each other and for any reason one of them is unable to understand the intentions or actions of the other vessel or is in doubt as to whether the other vessel is taking sufficient action to avoid a collision, she shall immediately report this by sounding at least five short and frequent sounds of the whistle. Such a signal may be accompanied by a light signal consisting of at least five short and frequent flashes.

(e) A vessel approaching a bend or a portion of a channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by obstructions must sound one continuous blast. Any approaching vessel within earshot of a bend or obstruction shall respond to such a signal with one continuous blast.

(g) If a vessel has whistles spaced more than 100 m apart, only one whistle shall be used to provide shunting and warning signals.

Commentary on Rule 34

COMMENTS

1. The signals prescribed by Rule 34 may only be used in conditions of good visibility when the vessels are in sight of each other. The exception is the signal given when approaching a bend in a channel or fairway, which is used regardless of the presence of visual contact.

2. The giving of signals during maneuvering is required by Rule 34(a) and (b) only for a power-driven vessel when it is in sight of another vessel and performing any maneuver permitted or required by COLREGS.
Consequently, these signals should not be given by a sailing vessel during any manoeuvres. When the Rules were revised, there were suggestions that the requirements for maneuvering signals would be extended to sailing vessels. However, they did not receive support and were rejected.
This, in particular, is explained by the fact that when a sailing vessel meets a vessel with a mechanical engine, the latter must give way to it, while the sailing vessel must maintain its course and speed, i.e. in such a situation there is an urgent need for the exchange of maneuvering signals is absent, unlike the meeting of two ships with mechanical engines. As for the requirement to give other signals provided for in paragraphs (c), (j) and (e) of Rule 34, they must be complied with by all vessels, including sailing vessels.

3. Although the text of paragraph (a) of the Rule in question does not directly link the giving of signals during maneuvering to the presence of a risk of collision with another vessel, since it refers to a maneuver permitted or required by COLREGs, this should be understood in such a way that signals must be given in situations where these rules apply, and the Maneuvering Rules, as is known, generally apply only when there is a risk of collision.
Consequently, these signals should not be given generally by vessels that are in sight of each other, but when there is a risk of collision, and the maneuver is undertaken in order to pass, or when, as a result of the maneuver, a danger of collision may arise.

Sound signals about maneuvering should also be given in cases where such information may be of interest from the point of view of maritime safety for other vessels in sight. The above considerations can be illustrated by the following very specific and frequently encountered situation.

A vessel proceeding in a narrowness subject to Rule 9(a) and changing courses according to the bends of the narrowness shall not give signals when changing course, even if she is in full view of another vessel navigating the same narrowness.
Each vessel navigating the narrow must take into account that the other will follow the curve of the narrow and change courses accordingly and this will not lead to a collision, since the other vessel will also change courses along the narrow.
Giving maneuver signals in such a situation can be dangerous, as the oncoming vessel may mistake it for a warning of an intention to cross a narrow and its response may result in a collision.
However, if a vessel wishes to cross a narrow area, it must necessarily use maneuvering signals to inform other vessels.

The signals in question must be given simultaneously with the start of the maneuver. They must be used regardless of the relative position and type of approach of the vessels.
When giving signals, care must first be taken not to give a signal that could confuse another vessel. If the wrong signal is given by mistake, you should wait a while, give the correct signal and at the same time be more active in your actions (for example, give full reverse or shift the steering wheel to the side).

When giving maneuvering signals, it is necessary to ensure that they do not merge with the signals of another vessel and have the intervals required by the Rule.
For example, if a vessel, changing its course to starboard, makes one short blast and then repeats it without waiting the required interval, then another vessel may perceive them together as a signal indicating a change of course to port.
It is also important that course changes indicate that the vessel is actually turning. Therefore, even small changes in course, if they are permitted or required by the Rules, should be notified to other vessels by giving maneuvering signals.

According to paragraph (a) of Rule 34, maneuvering signals must be given regardless of distance, provided that the vessels are in sight of each other and are performing maneuvers permitted or required by COLREG-72.
Consequently, signals must also be given when the distance between vessels exceeds the normal audibility range of sound signals. This requirement is now all the more reasonable, since the sound signals of maneuvering can be duplicated by light signals.
Thanks to this, it is now possible to inform all other vessels around it in advance about the actions of the vessel. However, if the change of course is carried out while another vessel is in sight, but at a considerable distance, and if there is no danger of collision between the vessels and, therefore, the Rules of Maneuvering are not applied, then maneuvering signals may not be given.

4. A slight change has been made to the meaning of the signal, consisting of three short sounds, given when reversing ships. Taking into account the use on modern ships of various types of propulsors (for example, adjustable pitch propellers), in which reversing the machine is not required, now three short sounds indicate not the operation of the machines in reverse, but the corresponding operation of the ship's propulsion system.
In this case, the signal is determined only by the operation of the propulsion in reverse, regardless of whether this changes the direction of the forward movement of the vessel or not. At the same time, you should not give a signal immediately after moving the engine telegraph into reverse; you must first make sure that the mover has begun to operate in reverse.

5. During the revision of the Rules, proposals were discussed to use the signals of paragraph (a) of Rule 34 to convey messages about actions planned for divergence, i.e. about the intentions of the ship.
Such use of signals is known to be successfully practiced, for example, on rivers. However, after considering this proposal, it was decided to retain the meaning of these signals.
This is explained by the fact that in most cases the actions taken are already determined by the Rules of Maneuvering and the intentions of the vessels do not need to be coordinated. In addition, it was considered more important to inform the other ship not about intentions, but about the actions themselves.

6. In recent years, various lighting options have been proposed, such as illuminated turn arrows, red and green flashing lights, etc.
However, after a comprehensive discussion of such proposals, it was decided to use a white flashing all-round light to provide light signals. It must be displayed in the center line of the vessel in the most visible place and at least 2 m above the forward masthead light; its specific location is defined in paragraph 12 of Appendix I COLREG-72.
The light signal given during maneuvering consists of a number of flashes corresponding to the number of short sounds in the sound signal it duplicates. The duration of each flash and the interval between them should be about 1 s.
Unlike the sound signal, which is given once, the light signal must be repeated at intervals of 10 seconds throughout the maneuver. Due to this, it can be expected that the light signal will be more effective in the future compared to the sound signal.
Taking this into account, when revising the PPSS, many delegations proposed making it mandatory to use light signals when maneuvering at least on ships with a length of 50 m or more, that is, those with two masthead lights.
Unfortunately, the majority of the Conference participants considered it expedient for now to limit ourselves to granting the courts the right to use these signals. This was done due to the lack of necessary practical experience in using light signals.

7. The requirements of paragraph (c) of Rule 34 are fundamentally important. They concern sound signals that must be used when overtaking in narrow areas and on fairways. The procedure for such overtaking is determined by Rule 9(c)(1).
Paragraph (c) of Rule 34 indicates the nature of the sound signals used, which correspond to those used in the USSR and were adopted on the basis of a Soviet proposal. It should be emphasized that these sound signals must be given to indicate the vessel's intention and to indicate the overtaking direction.
If any maneuver necessary for overtaking is performed, the other vessel should be informed about it by sounding the appropriate sound signal required by Rule 34 (a). The same paragraph (c) (i) of Rule 34 specifies the nature of the sound signal that must be given by the vessel being overtaken in cases where it agrees to overtake.
If the overtaken vessel doubts the possibility of being safely overtaken by another vessel, it must not give the signal provided for in paragraph (c) (I) of this Rule. Therefore, the absence of a response signal indicates the impossibility of overtaking.
In this case, the overtaking vessel may also additionally use the signals provided for in Rule 34(th) to indicate danger to the overtaking vessel.
Thus, overtaking in a narrow area, when the overtaken vessel must clear the way for the overtaking vessel, can be carried out only after the overtaking vessel requests permission to overtake, indicating the direction of overtaking, and receives confirmation from the overtaken vessel. This procedure increases the safety of overtaking.

8. Clause (f Rule 34) talks about using a signal consisting of five or more short and frequent sounds to warn another vessel about possible danger. Now this signal can be duplicated by giving a light signal, also consisting of at least five short and frequent sounds glimpses.
The use of this signal is not limited only to the vessel that must maintain its course and speed, i.e. the privileged vessel as previously defined. According to PPSS-60, such a vessel was only allowed to use the signal in question, and it did not bear any obligation.
According to paragraph (f Rule 34 COLREG-72), the specified signal must be given by any vessel that, while approaching another vessel in sight, cannot understand the nature of the actions or intentions of that vessel or doubts that the other vessel is taking sufficiently effective actions to prevent a collision.

9. Paragraph (e) of Rule 34 in question defines the nature of the sound signal (one long sound) given by a vessel when approaching a bend in a channel or fairway for the information of another vessel located beyond the bend of a narrowness, and does not contain anything new.

10. In Soviet sea trade and fishing ports, to ensure trouble-free performance of towing and mooring operations using towing vessels, uniform signaling rules have been established between towing and towed vessels.

These signals have the following meanings:

one long sound - “Tow straight in the specified direction”;

two long sounds - “Stop the car”;

one long and one short sound - “Reduce speed”;

one short and one long sound - “Increase the speed”;

one long, one short and one long sound - “Give or accept a tug”;

one short sound - “Tow to the right”;

two short sounds - “Tow to the left”;

three short sounds - “Work at full speed backwards”;

three long and one short sounds - “Tug call”;

frequent short sounds (at least five) - “Stop the movement immediately.”

Signals are given by a ship's or mouth whistle. The signaling method is usually established before towing begins. The sound signal given by the towed vessel must be immediately rehearsed by the towing vessel, which confirms the timely acceptance and correct understanding of the signal.

11. Special sound and light signals are also used for communication between the icebreaker and the vessels underway. They were developed, approved by the IMO Assembly and came into force on January 1, 1966. Their description is given in Notices to Mariners, Issue No. 1.

12. Appendix III of COLREG-72 defines the possibility of equipping large vessels with at least two whistles. Taking into account this possible provision, paragraph (e) of Rule 34 determines that if a ship has two whistles separated by more than 100 m, then only one whistle should be used to give the signal for maneuvering and warning, so as not to distort the sound signal received on an oncoming ship.

Rule 35 - SOUND SIGNALS WHEN VISIBILITY IS LIMITED

Rule 35 - SOUND SIGNALS WHEN VISIBILITY IS LIMITED

In or near areas of limited visibility. day or night, the signals prescribed by this Rule shall be given as follows.

(a) A power-driven vessel moving through the water shall sound one continuous blast at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

(b) A power-driven vessel underway, but stopped and not moving in relation to the water, shall sound two continuous blasts at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, with an interval of about 2 seconds between them.

(c) A vessel unsteered or restricted in its ability to maneuver, a vessel constrained by its draft, a sailing vessel, a vessel engaged in fishing, and a vessel towing or pushing another vessel shall, in lieu of the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) and (b), ) of this Rule, sound three consecutive sounds at intervals of no more than 2 minutes, namely, one long sound followed by two short ones.

(t) A vessel engaged in fishing at anchor and a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver while carrying out its work at anchor shall, in place of the signals prescribed in paragraph (e) of this Rule, sound the sound signal prescribed in paragraph (c) of this Rule.

(f) The vessel being towed, and if more than one vessel is towed, the last of them, if crewed, shall, at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, sound four successive blasts, namely, one long blast followed by three short blasts. If possible, this signal should be given immediately after the signal from the towing vessel.

(g) If the pushing vessel and the forward vessel are rigidly coupled into an articulated vessel, they shall be treated as a power-driven vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule.
(e) A vessel at anchor shall, at intervals of not more than 1 minute, ring the bell rapidly for approximately 5 seconds. On a vessel of 100 m or more in length, this signal shall be given by a bell at the bow and immediately followed at the stern by a rapid gong signal for approximately 5 seconds.
A vessel at anchor may, in order to warn approaching vessels of its position and the possibility of collision, additionally sound three successive blasts on its whistle, namely one short, one long and one short.

(b) A vessel aground shall sound the signal by bell and, if required, by gong as prescribed in paragraph (e) of this Rule, and in addition give three separate distinct strokes of the bell immediately before and after each rapid ringing of the bell.
A grounded vessel may additionally give an appropriate signal with a whistle. (1) A vessel less than 12 m in length is not required to give the above signals, but if she does not give them, she must sound another effective sound signal at intervals of not less than 2 minutes.
(]) A pilot vessel, when engaged in the performance of her pilotage duties, may, in addition to the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (e) of this Rule, give an identification signal consisting of four short blasts.

Commentary on Rule 35

COMMENTS

1. The nature of audible fog signals for most vessels and situations has remained unchanged. The only significant change concerns sailing ships. In connection with the abolition of the use of a fog horn on them and the equipping of these vessels with a whistle, a new fog signal has been installed for them. The selected signal is one that is currently given by all vessels that have limited maneuvering capabilities to one degree or another.
As a result, the sailing vessel will have a single signal with a vessel deprived of the ability to steer or a vessel limited in the ability to maneuver, a vessel engaged in fishing, a vessel towing or pushing another vessel, i.e. with a category of vessels that a normal power-driven vessel the engine must give way.
This category of vessels, which are required to sound one long blast followed by two short blasts, includes vessels constrained by their draft and, as a result, unable to maneuver freely.

2. Subject to Rule 35(g), when pushing towing, if the pushing and pushed vessels are rigidly coupled into one vessel, the signals prescribed for an ordinary power-driven vessel shall be given.

3. The audible fog signals prescribed in Rule 35 must be given in or when sailing near areas of limited visibility. Definition of “Reduced Visibility”: Described in Rule 3(e), but does not provide a specific quantitative meaning for reduced visibility.

4. Rule 35 emphasizes the need to give audible fog signals not only when sailing in an area of ​​limited visibility, but also when sailing close to such an area.
This provision is based on the experience of good maritime practice and is confirmed by the comments to the Rules. Sound fog signals should be given not only when approaching an area of ​​limited visibility, but also when sailing along this area, taking into account the possibility of an oncoming vessel unexpectedly leaving the area of ​​limited visibility.
Sound fog signals must be given in conditions of limited visibility, regardless of the use of the ship's radar and the nature of the information obtained with its help about the presence or absence of other ships.
The time at which audible fog signals begin and end, as well as a possible change in the nature of the signals given, should be recorded in the ship's logbook.

5. Rule 35 establishes a uniform interval of two minutes between audible fog signals. At the same time, the interval between signals given by vessels with limited maneuverability has been increased from 1 to 2 minutes, and the Rule emphasizes the inadmissibility of exceeding it.
This value is the maximum. However, good maritime practice recommends reducing this interval if the presence of another vessel (or vessels) is determined to be within the range of possible audibility of fog signals.
In this case, the gaps between signals should be shortened so that the clarity of their sound does not deteriorate and their meaning is not violated. When sailing in areas of heavy traffic, you should coordinate your fog signals with those of other ships to avoid mutual interference.
It is advisable to reduce the intervals between sound fog signals when sailing near ports, anchorages and other areas of busy ship traffic.

6. According to paragraph (a) of Rule 35, a power-driven vessel moving relative to the water must sound one long sound. This signal must be used in all cases where the vessel has forward motion relative to the water, regardless of whether its propellers are working or not, whether it is moving forward or backward, and whether its speed is high or low.

7. If a vessel with a mechanical engine has stopped while moving and has no forward motion relative to the water, then, in accordance with paragraph (b) of this Rule, it must sound two long sounds.
This signal is very important as it allows other vessels in an area of ​​limited visibility to be aware of the presence of a stationary vessel and, taking this into account, to maneuver accordingly to avoid it. The use of the signal in question is permissible only in the case when the ship really has no movement relative to the water.
Therefore, care and great care are required, especially at night, to ensure that the vessel is stationary in the water before moving from a single continuous blast signal to a two continuous blast signal. To correctly determine the moment to stop a vessel, navigators need to know its inertia under different modes of movement and different loads of the vessel.
It should be noted that quite often navigators, when the vessel is moving along by inertia with stopped machines, begin to give a signal prematurely - two long sounds. As judicial and arbitration practice shows, a vessel that incorrectly applied the signal in question is always found guilty of this.

8. As noted earlier, sailing ships must now give the same signal while underway - one long sound followed by two short sounds, as all other ships with limited maneuverability. The decision to change the signal for sailing ships is explained by the fact that the signals previously used on them - one, two or three short sounds - could be mistaken for maneuvering signals.

9. According to paragraph (c) of Rule 35, all ships having. limited maneuverability, including vessels unable to be steered, vessels engaged in fishing, or vessels engaged in complex towing, must sound one general fog signal consisting of one long and two short sounds. This signal must be used by all designated vessels underway, whether they are underway or not.
It should be noted that the signal in question can be given by vessels with various maneuvering capabilities, and used by them both when there is forward motion relative to the water, and when they are completely stopped.
Taking this into account, it should be recognized that the information obtained when receiving the specified signal has a significant degree of uncertainty. Therefore, special care must be taken when receiving such a signal.

10. The audible fog signal prescribed by paragraph (c) of Rule 35 in accordance with COLREG 72 must be given in conditions of reduced visibility by vessels towing or pushing other vessels.
This requirement applies to vessels engaged in pushing towing, with the exception of cases where the pushing and pushed vessels are rigidly coupled. The towed vessel, in turn, must also give an audible fog signal consisting of one long and three short sounds.
The application of this requirement is subject to the presence of a crew on the towed vessel. However, given that the signal given by the towing vessel does not indicate the presence of another vessel on the tow, it is recommended, based on the requirements of Rule 2 (a), to take measures to ensure that the towed vessel gives a signal. This is especially necessary when performing complex tows or when towing another vessel on a long tug.

11. Rule 35, paragraph (c), does not specify whether vessels listed in this paragraph must sound the prescribed sound signal only when underway or whether they may also use it when at anchor.
For most vessels, such as sailing vessels, vessels constrained by their draft, vessels unable to navigate, and some of those classified as restricted in the ability to maneuver, the requirements of paragraph (c) should only apply when underway. .
Vessels at anchor cannot be regarded as having limited ability to manoeuvre, and must be regarded as simply vessels at anchor and give the signals prescribed in paragraph (e) of Rule 35 in this regard.
However, certain categories of vessels limited in their ability to manoeuvre, which, under Rule 27, carry visual identification signals when at anchor to alert other vessels to the nature of their activities, are required by analogy to display at anchor the audible fog signal prescribed in Rule 35(c). .
This applies, for example, to vessels engaged in dredging or underwater operations, cable laying and other similar work, as well as vessels fishing while at anchor. Their use of such a signal will indicate to other vessels the need to keep clear of a vessel giving such a signal.

12.All vessels at anchor must give fog signals using a bell. Considering that the range of its audibility is insignificant, clause (e) of Rule 35 establishes a shortened interval for sending anchor fog signals equal to 1 minute.
In addition, a vessel at anchor is permitted to warn approaching vessels detected, for example, by radar, by blowing an additional signal K on the MSS, consisting of one short, one long and one short sound.
According to paragraph (f) of this Rule, a vessel engaged in fishing and a vessel limited in the ability to maneuver, performing its work while at anchor, must instead; signals prescribed by paragraph (e), give the signal required by paragraph (c) of this Rule.
On large ships over 100 m in length, the Rules require that a signal be given with a bell at the bow and immediately followed by a signal with a gong at the stern of the vessel.

13. A vessel stranded may, subject to the provisions of paragraph (b) of Rule 35, use a whistle in addition to the signals given by bell and gong. The nature of this signal is not defined by the Rules.
This issue was fully considered at the 1972 Conference on the revision of the PPSS and gave rise to lively discussion. However, no specific decision was made about the nature of the signal under consideration. In the opinion of the majority of delegations, for any given situation, the sound signal prescribed in Rule 35 (b) may be selected at the discretion of the captain.
As such a signal, it was proposed that a grounded vessel use either the MCC signal II, meaning “You are approaching danger,” or the K signal provided under Rule 35(e) for vessels at anchor. The first proposed signal, "C", appears to be the most appropriate when a grounded vessel is observed to be on a course which is likely to result in either a collision or grounding.

If there is no need for such a warning to another vessel, then signal K. 14 can be used. Paragraph (g) of Rule 35 provides for an identification signal for pilot vessels. Its character has not changed, but now it can be used not only by a power-driven pilot vessel, but also by a sailing pilot vessel.

Rule 36 - SIGNALS TO ATTRACT ATTENTION

Rule 36 - SIGNALS TO ATTRACT ATTENTION

Any vessel, when necessary to attract the attention of another vessel, may give light or sound signals, but such as may not be mistaken for signals prescribed by these Rules, or may direct the beam of a searchlight in the direction of danger, but so as not to interfere with others. to the courts.

Any light used to attract the attention of another vessel must be such that it cannot be mistaken for any aid to navigation. For the purposes of this Regulation, the use of intermittent or rotating lights with high luminous intensity (such as flash lights) should be avoided.

Part D - SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS

Rule 32 - DEFINITIONS

(b) The term "short sound" means a sound lasting about 1 second.

(c) The term “long sound” means a sound lasting from 4 to 6 seconds.

INTERPRETATION

All whistle signals prescribed by the Rules consist of short and/or long sounds.

Rule 33 - SOUND SIGNALING EQUIPMENT

(b) A vessel less than 12 m in length is not required to have sound signaling devices prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, but if such a vessel does not have them, she must be provided with other means of giving an effective sound signal.

INTERPRETATION

Whistle sound frequency. Technical characteristics of sound signaling devices are given in the first section of Appendix III. Whistle frequencies are determined depending on the length of the vessel in order to provide a sufficiently wide variety of their characteristics. The fundamental frequency of the whistle of a vessel 200 m or more in length should be between 70 and 200 Hz to produce relatively low-pitched signals. Vessels less than 75 m in length must have a whistle frequency between 250 and 700 Hz, signaling a relatively sharp tone. The whistle of an intermediate size vessel should have a frequency between 130 and 350 Hz.

Hearing range. The Appendix does not contain information about the minimum audibility range of a whistle in quiet conditions. Several typical audibility ranges for whistles from vessels of different sizes are given here, along with the warning that their audibility range is variable and largely dependent on weather conditions. The typical range of audibility for a ship's whistle of 200 m or more in favorable conditions is 2 miles.

Bell and gong. The technical characteristics of the bell and gong are given in Appendix III, paragraph 2. Rule 33 (a) allows the replacement of the bell and gong by other devices having the same sound characteristics, the signaling of which can be automated. However, it must still be possible to give signals manually.

Small vessels. Rule 33(b) exempts vessels less than 12 m in length, similar to Rule 15(c)(ix) of PPSS-60 for vessels less than 40 feet (12.19m) in length, from the requirement to equip vessels with a whistle, bell and gong. However, small craft that do not have these devices must be equipped with a substitute means of producing effective sound signals, such as an aerosol-type fog horn.

Rule 34 - MANEUVERING AND WARNING SIGNALS

Two short blasts mean “I am altering my course to port”;

Three short sounds mean “My thrusters are in reverse.”

(b) The vessel may accompany the sound signals prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule by light signals repeated throughout the manoeuvre;

(i) These light signals must have the following meaning:

One flash means "I am altering my course to starboard";

Two flashes mean “I am altering my course to port”;

Three flashes mean “My thrusters are in reverse”;

(ii) the duration of each flash should be about 1 s, the interval between flashes should be about 1 s, the interval between successive signals should be at least 10 s;

(iii) The light used to give such a signal, if fitted, shall be an all-round white light, visible at a distance of not less than 5 miles, and shall comply with the requirements of Appendix I to these Regulations.

(With) When vessels are in full view of each other in a narrow channel or fairway, then:

(i) a vessel intending to overtake in accordance with Rule 9(e); (i) the other vessel shall indicate its intention by the following Signals on its whistle: two long blasts followed by one short blast, which means “I intend to overtake you on the starboard side”;

Two long blasts followed by two short blasts, which mean “I intend to overtake you on the port side”;

(ii) the vessel which intends to be overtaken shall, acting in accordance with Rule 9(e)(i), indicate its consent by sounding the following signal on the whistle in the sequence indicated:

One long, one short, one long and one short sounds.,

(d) When vessels within sight of each other approach each other and for any reason one of them is unable to understand the intentions or actions of the other vessel or is in doubt as to whether the other vessel is taking sufficient action to avoid a collision, she must report immediately by sounding at least five short and rapid blasts of the whistle. Such a signal may be accompanied by a light signal consisting of at least five short and frequent flashes.

(e) A vessel approaching a bend or a section of a channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by obstructions must sound one continuous blast. Any approaching vessel within earshot of a bend or obstruction shall respond to such a signal with one continuous blast.

(i) If whistles on a ship are installed at a distance of more than 100 m from each other, then only one whistle should be used for signaling, maneuvering and warning.

INTERPRETATION

The ships are in sight of each other. The signals described in points (a), (b), (c) and (d) should only be given by vessels within sight of each other, and point (e) is obviously intended to be used in conditions of good visibility. Vessel maneuvering signals should not be given when avoidance actions are taken in close proximity to the vessel as detected on the radar screen rather than visually. However, a vessel cannot be justified if it did not give these signals because, as a result of poor visual surveillance, it did not detect another vessel in a timely manner.

"Lucile Bloomfleld" - "Ronda". “In plain sight,” in my view, means something that can be seen if one takes the trouble to observe, and that, of course, is the case in this case. In short, the fact that no one was observing the surroundings does not relieve the duty to sound signals” (Judge Karminski, 1966).

Maneuvering signals used by sailing ships. Rule 34(a) applies only to power-driven vessels. Sailing vessels are not required to give maneuvering signals when they are taking action to avoid a collision. The remaining paragraphs of Rule 34 apply to all vessels. In particular, it should be noted that sailing vessels, when in doubt about the intentions or actions of another vessel, must sound a signal consisting of at least five short and rapid blasts.

Allowed or required. The whistle signals required by Rule 34(a) shall be made by a vessel when manoeuvring, as permitted or required by these Rules. Signaling changes in course is not required when using the rudder to neutralize the effect of a current or to keep a vessel moving astern from turning. A vessel whose engines are running backwards while turning in a river without moving backwards is not required to sound a signal consisting of three short whistles.

Even a minor change of course should usually be accompanied by an appropriate audible signal if permitted or required by the Rules.

"Varmdo" - "Jeanne M". “Minor steering action may be even more important to signal by blowing the whistle, since such steering action is undoubtedly more difficult to detect than a sudden and significant shift of the steering wheel” (Judge Langton, 1939).

However, the court decision in the Royalgate - Peter case (1967) indicated that there was no need for a ship to sound a signal when it changed course 5° to port and then returned to its previous course 5 minutes later, since it in essence there was no change in course.

The word "permitted" covers actions not related to special requirements of the Rules, such as the need to depart from the Rules to avoid imminent danger, or the precaution required by normal maritime practice, in accordance with Rule 2.

Sound signals are not necessary if action is taken on a vessel in visual contact at a long distance before a risk of collision arises; but if the Rules apply, the ship must make sound signals even if there is doubt that they will be heard.

"Haugland" - "Kagatea". “When asked by the judge why the signal was not given, the chief mate of the Haugland replied: “Because it seemed to me that the Kagatea was very far from us; it wouldn’t have heard our signal.” This was a clear violation of the Rule. If vessels are in sight of each other, they must give signals. This requirement is not conditional on whether the signals will be heard by another vessel. It is easy to understand why this Rule is formulated so peremptorily. It would be very dangerous if the officers of the watch were to decide whether or not to give a signal on the basis of assumptions as to whether the other vessel would hear it; he must give a signal if it is in sight" (Viscount Finlay, House of Lords, 1921).

"Fretnona" - "Electra". “We know very well that in such cases, officers of the watch sometimes think that by giving a signal with a whistle, they will disturb the captain or someone else on the ship, and then it turns out that there was no need to sound the signal. We cannot accept this as an excuse. The rule is stated extremely clearly. It contains the word "shall" - must give a signal with a whistle, and this word "shall" must be carried out; and if the mates of the watch for any reason choose to neglect the duties which this Rule imposes upon them, they will have only themselves to blame when found guilty (Judge Bargrave Dean, 1907).

Signals about an action that is not allowed. When a power-driven vessel, while within sight of another vessel and within audible range of audible signals, takes an action which is not authorized or required by the Rules, she shall notwithstanding give the signals prescribed in Rule 34(a).

Working in reverse. A signal consisting of three short blasts does not necessarily mean that the vessel issuing it is moving astern in the water. It may take several minutes of the machine running backwards to stop the vessel moving forward. The expression “my engines are in reverse” has been adopted instead of “my engines are in reverse” used in the previous Rules, since some vessels are no longer required to reverse engines to operate engines in astern.

Visual signal. The visual maneuvering signal in accordance with Rule 28 of PPSS-60 was also optional, and the light signal had to be connected to the sound signaling mechanism and act simultaneously with it. Synchronization is no longer necessary, and the visual signal can now be repeated at intervals of at least 10 s, and the maneuver continues without repeating the whistle signal.

Annex I, paragraph 12 states that the maneuver indicator light should be installed where practicable, at a vertical height of at least 2 m above the forward masthead light. This should ensure good visibility.

The noise level on some ships, particularly diesel ships, is often very high, making it difficult to hear sound signals. The visual signal, especially when repeated during the maneuver, provides important additional information about the actions taken to avoid a collision. As this signal is not mandatory, it is not necessary to use it in conditions in which it might confuse other vessels, but it can sometimes be of invaluable service. Let's hope that many ships will be equipped with this new maneuvering light.

Overtaking signals in a narrow passage. Paragraph (c) specifies the signals to be used by vessels operating under Rule 9(e) (see also pp. 94-95). The rules do not provide a signal to indicate that the vessel being overtaken does not consider it safe to overtake, but Rule 9(e) states that, when in doubt, such a vessel may sound the signal of at least five short blasts prescribed in Rule 34(d). This signal may be used as confirmation that the signals of a vessel intending to overtake have been heard, and also as an expression of doubt about the wisdom of attempting to overtake in that part of the channel. After this, the overtaking vessel must repeat its signals and receive a signal of agreement before attempting to overtake. In this case, it is useful to establish a radiotelephone connection.

Warning signal. The give-way vessel is required by Rule 16 to take early and decisive action to keep clear, and by Rule 8 to take confident and timely action to avoid a collision. If the give-way vessel does not take firm and early action, the vessel maintaining course and speed shall sound the whistle at least five short and rapid blasts. This “warning” signal was previously optional. It should be emphasized that this signal must consist of at least five short sounds; if there is no quick response to the signal, you should continue moving or repeat the signal in the hope of attracting attention.

The Rule now places special emphasis on the use of a light signal consisting of at least five short and frequent flashes, supplemented by a whistle. This signal can be given by a signal lamp and has found wide application. Using a light signal can be more effective than using a whistle, especially at night.

The signal prescribed by Rule 34(d) must now be used by any vessel that doubts the intentions or actions of another vessel. Its use in narrow passages is particularly emphasized in Rule 9(d) and (c). PPSS-60 allowed the use of this signal only by a vessel maintaining course and speed.

Rule 35 - SOUND SIGNALS WHEN VISIBILITY IS LIMITED

(a) A vessel with a mechanical engine moving relative to the water must sound one long sound at intervals of no more than 2 minutes.

(b) A power-driven vessel underway, but stopped and not moving relative to the water, must sound two long blasts at intervals of no more than 2 minutes, with an interval of about 2 seconds between them.

(c) A vessel unsteered or restricted in its ability to maneuver, a vessel constrained by its draft, a sailing vessel, a vessel engaged in fishing, and a vessel towing or pushing another vessel shall, in lieu of the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule, , give three consecutive sounds at intervals of no more than 2 minutes, namely, one long sound followed by two short ones.

(d) The towed vessel, and if more than one vessel is towed, then the last of them, if there is a crew on it, must sound four consecutive sounds at intervals of no more than 2 minutes, namely one long sound followed by three short ones. If possible, this signal should be given immediately after the signal from the towing vessel.

(e) If the pushing vessel and the forward vessel are rigidly coupled into an articulated vessel, they shall be treated as a power-driven vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule.

(f) A vessel at anchor shall, at intervals of not more than 1 minute, ring the bell rapidly for approximately 5 seconds. On a vessel of 100 m or more in length, this signal should be given by a bell at the bow and immediately followed at the stern by a rapid gong signal for approximately 5 seconds. A vessel at anchor may, in order to warn approaching vessels of its location and the possibility of collision, additionally sound three successive blasts on its whistle, namely one short, one long and one short.

(g) A vessel aground shall give the signal by bell and, if required, by gong as prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule, and in addition give three separate distinct strokes of the bell immediately before and after each rapid ringing of the bell. A grounded vessel may additionally give an appropriate signal with a whistle.

(h) A vessel less than 12 m in length is not required to give the above signals, but if she does not give them, she must give another effective sound signal at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.

(i) A pilot vessel, when engaged in the performance of her pilotage duties, may, in addition to the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (f) of this Rule, give an identification signal consisting of four short blasts.

INTERPRETATION

In or near an area of ​​limited visibility. Fog signals must now also be given when sailing near an area of ​​limited visibility, especially when approaching such an area. Rule 19, which establishes the procedure for vessels to operate in fog, applies to vessels located in an area of ​​limited visibility, as well as to vessels located near such an area (see p. 163).

The fog density at which fog signals must be initiated has not been established. Of course, there is no point in giving sound signals when the range of visual visibility exceeds the range of hearing of the devices used to give sound signals. However, it would be reasonable to assume an upper limit of visual visibility greater than the audible signal audibility distances specified in Annex III, since audible signaling devices can be heard at greater distances than the specified distances and, in addition, it is difficult to accurately determine the visual range.

Intervals between whistle signals. All fog signals by whistle must be given at intervals of no more than 2 minutes. Some whistle signals used to be required at intervals of no more than 1 minute, but at the 1972 Conference it was decided to establish a standard maximum interval of 2 minutes for all whistle signals, since very frequent whistle blowing can lead to temporary deafness. Signals with a bell and gong should continue as before, that is, at intervals of no more than 1 minute.

The rule sets the maximum value of the interval between signals. When another vessel is known to be close, whistle signals should be given at intervals of less than 2 minutes. Increased signaling usually increases the ability of other vessels that may be without radar to determine an approximate bearing.

Two long sounds. The signal, consisting of two continuous blasts, should not be given until it is determined that the vessel has stopped moving through the water.

"Lifland" - "Rosa Luxembourg". “I attach great importance to the correct assessment of this distinctive feature and its timely detection; however, we would not listen to such explanations: “Even if the ship was not completely stopped, it was almost stopped, and you should not be very strict with me, since it is very difficult to accurately determine the moment the ship stopped.” This signal must not be given until the vessel has stopped, and before giving it you must be absolutely sure that she is not moving in relation to the water" (Judge Langton, 1934).

Sailing ships. Sailing vessels are now required to give the sound signals prescribed in Rule 35(c) for vessels restricted in their ability to manoeuvre. The Conference decided not to retain signals indicating the position of a proceeding vessel relative to the direction of the wind, since this information is of little value to other vessels, and because the signals previously prescribed to these vessels, consisting of one, two and three whistles, may be mistaken for maneuvering signals.

The signal prescribed by Rule 35(c) must only be given by a vessel with sails set and underway. Yachts and sailing vessels at anchor shall give the signals prescribed in Rule 35(f).

A vessel engaged in towing. The sound signals required by Rule 35(c) must be given by almost all categories of vessels to which certain privileges are granted by Rule 18, i.e. they should not only be given by towing vessels engaged in complex towing operations. A vessel engaged in towing must give a signal consisting of a long blast and two short blasts. The towed vessel, if crewed, is required to give the special sound signal prescribed in Rule 35(d). However, this should be considered as a precaution required by Rule 2(a), that is, that provision should be made to ensure that such a signal is given, especially when the tug is long, since the towing vessel cannot be identified as such by its fog signal.

A towing vessel moored to a vessel, but not towing, shall not give fog signals that the towing vessel is required to give. The decision of the court in this case, among other things, stated that the vessel associated with the towing vessel was required to give the signals prescribed to the vessel while underway, which were not to be accompanied by any signals from the towing vessel.

A ship pushing another ship. A vessel pushing another vessel must now give the same signals as the towing vessel.

In the previous Rules such vessels were not mentioned and it was considered that they should make the signals prescribed for ordinary power-driven vessels. Rule 35(e) requires vessels rigidly coupled into an articulated vessel to make the signals prescribed for power-driven vessels.

The ship is at anchor. When a vessel of 100 m or more in length is at anchor, a rapid signal by a gong shall be given at the stern, following the signal given by a bell. The previous Rules did not specify the sequence in which these signals were given.

Appendix III does not give typical hearing ranges for bells and gongs, which are likely to be relatively short. A vessel anchored in tight waters and when the approach of another vessel appears to be excessive is permitted by Rule 35(f) to sound a stronger signal on the whistle.

A vessel engaged in fishing at anchor. In accordance with Rule 15 (c) (viii) of PPSS-60, a vessel engaged in fishing, while moving or at anchor, must give a signal consisting of one long and two short sounds. Rule 35 (c) of COLREG 72 is not stated in such detail, it simply talks about a vessel engaged in fishing, but everything remains unchanged. A vessel engaged in fishing at anchor shall sound the signal prescribed by Rule 35(c) on its whistle, and a fishing vessel at anchor which is not engaged in fishing shall sound the signals prescribed in Rule 35(f).

Special operations at anchor. Rule 27(b) requires certain anchored vessels classified as "restricted in ability to manoeuvre" to display three all-round lights, the top and bottom of which are red and the middle one is white. This applies to vessels engaged in laying or recovering submarine cables or underwater operations. The fog signal which such a vessel must make when at anchor is not very clearly defined, but she is probably entitled to sound the whistle signal prescribed in Rule 35(c) to warn other vessels.

The ship is aground. The sound signals of a grounded vessel remain the same as those prescribed in Rule 15 (c) (vii) of PPSS-60. A grounded vessel of 100 m or more in length shall sound the gong immediately after the second series of three strokes of the bell.

The new provision is that a grounded vessel is permitted to give the appropriate whistle signal. The nature of this signal is not specified because the Conference did not decide which signal would be acceptable under all conditions. The "U" signal (two short blasts and one long blast), meaning "your course is leading to danger", is generally considered appropriate for warning other vessels.

Pilot vessels. Each pilot vessel, including a sailing pilot vessel, may give an identification signal consisting of four short blasts. This capability was previously only used by power-driven pilot vessels. Some vessels engaged in providing vessels with pilots are allowed by local authorities to give other identification signals. Vessels making identification signals must continue to make fog signals at prescribed intervals.

Rule 36 - SIGNALS TO ATTRACT ATTENTION

INTERPRETATION

Fishing lights, the use of which on vessels engaged in fishing was permitted by Rule 9 (g) of PPSS-60, are not mentioned in the new Rules. Their mention was not considered necessary since all ships may use deck lights and other lights provided they do not impair the visibility or distinctive characteristics of the lights required by COLREG 72 Rule 20(b).

Lights or sound signals which may be mistaken for signals prescribed by other sections of the Rules shall not be used to attract the attention of another vessel. In particular, signals which are likely to be confused with the signals prescribed in Rule 37 shall not be used unless the ship is in distress. A very long blast on a ship's whistle, for example, would be taken for a "continuous blast by any apparatus designed to produce fog signals" [Appendix IV, paragraph 1, (b)].

Rule 37 - DISTRESS SIGNALS

INTERPRETATION

The duty of ships in distress and in need of assistance to use one or more of these signals is now particularly emphasized.