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SOUND PRODUCING DEVICES
diameter.
The sound signal made in all cases must be capable of
a four or six second blast audible for one half mile. See
the section discussing bridge and whistle signals for more
information.
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
VHF radios are used for distress and ship to shore and
ship to ship communications today. Learn the specialized
messages such as Mayday, Mayday, Mayday. It is only
used when life or vessel is in imminent danger.
Many of the more recent VHF's feature DSC capability
which offers the ability to place and receive digital calls
directly with vessels and shore stations including USA and
Canadian Coast Guards. Channel 70 is reserved exlusively
for DSC calls. Refer to the VHF owner's information since
you need to establish a Mobile Maritime Safety Identity
(MMSI) number before using the DSC feature. A MMSI
number identifi es each DSC radio, like a telephone number.
The FCC requires a ship station license for all vessels
equipped with a marine VHF radio.
NAVIGATION LIGHTS
The U. S. Coast Guard requires recreational boats operating
at night to display navigation lights between sunset and
sunrise along with other periods of reduced visibility.
Navigation lights help avoid collisions by improving
the night visibility of vessels. Red and green directional
lights, white stern lights, white masthead lights and white
all-around lights must be displayed in specifi ed positions,
depending on boat size, and mode of operation.
According to both Inland and
International Rules, all boats must
carry a way of producing an
efficient sound signal. If your
vessel is 12 meters (39' 4") or
longer, a power whistle or power
horn and bell must be carried. Bell
mouth must be at least 7 7/8"
The confi guration of visible lights tells an operator the
size, direction of travel and means of propulsion (sail,
power, rowing or at anchor) of another vessel.
This helps both operators determine who has the right
of way. Larger boats are required to carry bigger, brighter
lights that are visible over longer distances. See the light
requirement chart for pleasure craft.
MARINE SANITATION
DEVICES
Recreational vessels under 65' with installed toilet facilities
must have an operable marine sanitation device (MSD)
on board. Vessels 65' and under may use Type I, II, or
III MSD's. All installed MSD's must be U.S. Coast Guard
certifi ed. The MSD's are labeled to show conformity to
the regulations.
NAVIGATION RULES
The navigation rules establish actions to be taken by
vessels to avoid collision. They are divided into Inland/
International. Operators of vessels 39.4' or more shall have on
board and maintain a copy of the Inland navigation rules.
10
Chapter 2
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