What is the international emergency signal for distress?

The internationally recognized emergency signal for distress is a crucial tool for communicating imminent danger and requesting immediate assistance. It serves as a universal call for help, understood across language barriers and geographic locations.

There are several ways to signal distress, including:

• Visual Signals: These include using flares (both red hand flares and parachute flares), smoke signals, waving arms, or displaying an orange cloth with a black square and circle. The purpose is to get the attention of anyone who can help.

• Audible Signals: This typically involves using a whistle (six short blasts followed by one long blast, repeated at intervals), a foghorn (continuous sounding), or firing a gun (one shot at intervals).

• Radio Signals: Using radio signals like Mayday on designated distress frequencies (e.g., VHF channel 16, 2182 kHz) is a highly effective way to broadcast an emergency. The Mayday call is the highest priority communication.

• Distress Flags: The distress flag (a red flag with a white square in the center) or the N.C. flag (the nautical flag for "I am in distress") can be displayed.

• EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon): An EPIRB is a device that automatically transmits a distress signal to search and rescue authorities via satellite.

• S.O.S: S.O.S. is a Morse code distress signal (...---...) traditionally transmitted by radio or other means. It remains universally recognized as a plea for help.

It's critically important to understand that misusing distress signals can have serious consequences, including fines and penalties. They should only be used in genuine life-threatening emergencies.