Distress, International and Inland

Distress: gun fired

A vessel in distress and needing help.

A gun or other explosive signal

Press play. One signal at a time.

Distress: gun firedInternational and Inland
A vessel in distress and needing help.
Annex IV para. 1(a); 33 CFR 87.01(a)

Who sounds it

A vessel in distress.

How it's sounded

"A gun or other explosive signal." The clip is a study sound, not a measured recording.

At intervals of about a minute.

A short blast is about 1 second. A prolonged blast is 4 to 6 seconds. Clips use 1 and 5 seconds.

Worth remembering

About one a minute. A signal used alone or with others. Never use a distress signal for anything else.

Study more

See every sound signal, try the free Rules of the Road practice test, or read who gives way, and how Inland differs.

Learn the whole set

Helm drills every signal with flashcards and spaced review, on the web and iPhone.

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Sources

Annex IV para. 1(a); 33 CFR 87.01(a)

Helm is an independent study aid, not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Coast Guard or the National Maritime Center. This page is for study, not navigation guidance or legal advice. Check the current rules before you rely on anything here.