What does five short blasts of a horn indicate?

Five short blasts of a horn is a recognized signal that indicates danger or uncertainty in navigation. This signal is often used to alert other vessels that the signaling ship may be in a precarious situation or is unsure of the intentions or actions of others around it. In maritime communication, this specific sequence of short blasts serves as a clear warning to nearby boats, emphasizing the need for caution and vigilance during navigation.

This signaling method aligns with the standards set by COLREGs, the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, which standardizes communication signals at sea to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to accidents. Therefore, the correct identification of five short blasts as a signal for danger or uncertainty reflects a solid understanding of maritime safety protocols.