Rules of the Road · Distress Signals
'Flames on the vessel (as from a burning tar barrel, oil barrel, etc.)' is recognized as which type of signal under Annex IV?
- AA fog signal
- BA sound signal
- CA distress signal✓ Correct
- DA caution signal
Explanation
Annex IV paragraph 1(e) recognizes flames on a vessel — such as from a burning tar barrel, oil barrel, or other flammable material — as a distress signal. This provision ensures that the oldest maritime distress indicator (an open fire on deck) remains officially recognized even in the age of electronic distress beacons.
Authority: 72 COLREGS Annex IV, paragraph 1(e)
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