What is the purpose of the orange smoke signal?

The orange smoke signal is specifically designed to indicate distress. It produces a bright, visible cloud of orange smoke that can be easily seen from a distance, making it an effective tool for signaling for help in emergency situations. This type of signal is particularly useful in circumstances where visibility is limited, such as over open water or in poor weather conditions. The bright color and the density of the smoke serve to attract attention, ensuring that rescuers or nearby vessels can quickly locate the source of the distress signal.

This distinguishes it from other signaling methods which may serve different purposes, such as indicating friendship or providing a general warning, neither of which are intended to convey immediate danger or urgency requiring assistance from others. Similarly, navigation aids are utilized for directing vessels safely on their routes and do not serve the purpose of communicating distress.