A Course for Safe Boating

California Boating

Chapter 2

Boating Law, Navigational Rules and Navigational Aids

SOUND DEVICES

Sound Signals

All boats must carry some means of producing a sound signal, loud enough to

be heard for at least half a mile.

You must use your sound signaling device:

When meeting, crossing or overtaking another boat.

During periods of reduced visibility, such as fog or a blind bend in the river

or narrow channel.

During an emergency, to attract attention.

Sound signaling devices come in many shapes and sizes.

You can use:

An air horn (hand held or mounted).

An electric horn.

A whistle.

In an emergency you can even use:

A megaphone made from a rolled up chart.

A metal pot to bang on.

Vessels 40 feet or longer are required to carry a whistle and a bell to meet the

sound signaling device requirements.

Radios such as VHF are commonly used to communicate between boats.

They can be valuable tools for signaling other boats when you cross or over-

take them.

WEBSITE

For more information on regulations

for sound signals, visit

ALERT

When you come upon more than

one vessel, you may not be able

to signal your intention with horn

signals.

You must take any action

necessary to avoid a collision.

air horn

whistle

megaphone

metal pot