September 2025 Column BLOW YOUR HORN-USCG SOUND SIGNALING REGS FOR COASTAL CRAFT By Capt. John N.Raguso USCG Regulations The USCG has developed a list of requirements and recommendations for coastal boats that include a variety of critical items from life jackets, to throw cushions (a.k.a. throwable devices), to visual distress signal (VDS) devices for both day and night and more. One of these requirements is that vessels 39.4-feet (12-meters) or more in length must have a sound- producing device that can produce an efficient sound signal. This requirement is defined as a sound signal that can be audible for one-half mile away and last for a minimum of 4-to-6 seconds.
In periods of reduced visibility or whenever a vessel operator needs to signal his or her intentions or position, a sound-producing device is essential. Navigation rules for meeting head-on, crossing and overtaking situations are examples of when sound signals are required. The sound-producing device may be a whistle, horn, or bell that is audible for one-half mile. But not all vessels are created equal and this requisite mandate does not apply to all boat lengths. If boating on federally controlled waters, the requirements for sound producing devices are vessels less than 39.4-feet (12-meters), which includes PWC (personal water craft), must have some way of making an efficient sound signal. Examples of these are a handheld air horn, an athletic whistle, an installed electrical horn, etc. A human voice is not acceptable. Common Sound Signals for Various Situations
As previously stated, sound signals must be audible for at least one-half mile. Some common sound signals that you should be familiar with as a recreational boater are as follows. As a refresher, a short blast lasts one second, while a prolonged blast lasts 4–6 seconds. In Motion Underway •When changing direction, one short blast tells other boaters,“I intend to pass you on my port (left) side.” •Two short blasts signal other boaters,“I intend to pass you on my starboard (right) side.” •Three short blasts tell other boaters,“I am operating astern propulsion” (a.k.a.“I am backing up”). Restricted Visibility •One prolonged blast at intervals of not more than two minutes apart is the signal used by power-driven vessels when underway. •One prolonged blast plus two short blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailing vessels. Warning Signals •One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip). •Five (or more) short, rapid blasts signal danger or signal that you do not understand or that you disagree with the other boater’s intentions. you disagree with the other boater’s intentions.
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