Is it true that all vessels must adhere to the Annex IV Distress Signals regulations?

The assertion that all vessels must adhere to the Annex IV Distress Signals regulations is true. The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), along with other maritime regulations, mandates that all vessels, regardless of their type—commercial or private—must comply with the established distress signal requirements outlined in Annex IV. This section specifies the recognized signals that indicate a vessel is in distress and in need of assistance, which is crucial for ensuring safety at sea.

The necessity for all vessels to follow these regulations stems from the need for uniformity and clarity in communicating distress situations. By having a standardized set of signals, it facilitates a quicker and more effective response from nearby vessels and rescue services. This enhances overall maritime safety and helps prevent misunderstandings during emergencies. Adherence to these distress signal regulations is essential for all mariners, regardless of the nature of their vessel.