In spite of GPS, satellite phones and other AIS, there is still a time when we have to face the facts, communicate with someone else, let them know how we are going to act and make sure they have seen us.
Ultimate means of communication at sea
Sound signals are, when we no longer have the means to signal us or to see us (fog, night, electrical damage ...) the ultimate means to let people know that we exist. It is also, in the absence of direction indicator lights, the only non-audio means of notifying a boat we pass of our intentions.
RIPAM again
It is Rule 34 of RIPAM that establishes, at the global level, the sound signals to be emitted. It states that we must have a system that allows sound signals to be emitted on board a vessel less than 12 metres in length. That is the purpose of the foghorn which Division 240 makes mandatory.
In the following explanations:
- a short sound is about 1 second long
- a long sound a duration of four to six seconds
Reminder of the main signals :
- - a brief sound. I come on starboard (mnemonic tip: 1 brief, 1 B in starboard).
- - - two short sounds. I come to port (tip: 2 briefs, 2 Bs in port).
- - - - three short sounds. I'm beating back (backing up).
- -- -- - : two long sounds followed by one short sound. I intend to catch you on your starboard (mnemonic tip: 1 short, 1 B in starboard).
- -- -- - - : two long sounds followed by two short sounds. I intend to catch you on your port side (mnemonic tip: 2 short, 2 B in port).
- -- - -- - a long sound, a short sound, a long sound, a short sound. Affirmative answer from the caught boat.
- - - - - - at least 5 short sounds. "I have a doubt about your maneuver".
- -- a long sound. In an elbow or a face, to signal you.
To be renewed if necessary!
All of these indication sounds should be emitted every 2 minutes until you have completed your manoeuvre. Obviously, coupled with a VHF contact, these messages are all the more effective.
