COLREGs Distress Signals Practice Test

Two orange smoke flares used during daylight hours serve as a visual distress signal, indicating a situation in which immediate assistance is required. The color and nature of the smoke make it highly visible, even in bright daylight, alerting other vessels and nearby personnel to the fact that someone is in danger.

This method of signaling is part of the established maritime protocols for distress situations, ensuring that those in need can communicate their plight effectively. The use of orange smoke specifically is recognized internationally as a clear signal of emergency, allowing for rapid recognition and appropriate response from other vessels nearby.

In contrast, routine safety checks, normal navigational indications, and signaling for race events do not convey an emergency situation or the need for immediate help, making them unsuitable interpretations in this context.