Navigation Rules
What is the correct signal to warn another boater of danger or that you do not understand their intentions?
Answer
Five or more short, rapid blasts
Five (or more) short, rapid blasts is the danger or doubt signal. Sound it whenever you are unsure of another vessel's intentions or believe its actions could lead to a collision.
Source: U.S. Coast Guard / Office of the Federal Register — 33 CFR Part 83, Inland Navigation Rules, § 83.34(d) (Rule 34), Maneuvering and warning signals — https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.34
Not the answer
- Two short blasts
- A single long blast held for ten seconds
- One prolonged blast
Practice this
The boater safety certification exam is 50 questions and takes 40 correct — 80% — to pass. The app’s page carries a free ten-question test drawn from the same bank, marked as you go.
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