It's the Law: Required Equipment

• Visual Distress Signals
• Pyrotechnic VDS
• Non-Pyrotechnic VDS
• Federally Controlled Waters

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency. VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in bright sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible).

• Vessels used on Rhode Island waters or on federally controlled waters must be equipped with visual distress signals that are U.S. Coast Guard-approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible.
• If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must be carried in the vessel. Also, pyrotechnic VDSs must be dated and may not be carried past their expiration date.
• VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in bright sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible).

U.S. Coast Guard—Approved Visual Distress Signals

Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Orange Smoke Day Signal

Red Meteor Day and Night Signal

Red Flare Day and Night Signal

Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Electric Light Night Signal

Orange Flag Day Signal

Arm Signal Although this signal does not meet VDS equipment requirements, wave your arms to summon help if you do not have other distress signals on board.

Federally Controlled Waters

Vessels must observe federal requirements on these waters:

• Coastal waters
• The Great Lakes
• Territorial seas
• Waters which are two miles wide or wider and are connected directly to one of the above

Don't "cry wolf" ...
It is illegal to knowingly transmit a false distress or hoax call, whether it be by radio, telephone, emergency flares, or any other means of communication. Under Rhode Island law, the penalty for a false distress or hoax call is a $1,000 fine, one year in jail, and reimbursement of emergency response costs.