Signalling at Sea
Signalling at Sea
A SHIP desiring to hold a conversation with another ship while on the deep must first display the flag of the nation to which she belongs.
The other ship immediately hoists the flag of her country. The first ship then begins the conversation which can be carried on indefinitely.
Eighteen flags of various shapes and colors constitute the international “Code of Signals.” It is a most interesting mathematical fact that, with this small number of flags, and never more than four displayed at any one time, any amount of conversation can be kept up; and no fewer than 78642 questions can be asked and answered. When the new “Code of Signals,” consisting of the whole alphabet is put into general use, the number of questions will be more than doubled.
In signalling at night the conversation ismuch more limited, and is carried on by means of various colored lights, by guns and rockets.
The national ensign upside down, or in its absence any flag or token unusually displayed from mast or yard signifies distress and need of assistance, and at night a rocket has the same meaning. Any vessel seeing such signals at a day or night must, if able, go immediately to give relief, and is expected to do all in its power to render assistance in food or the saving of life. The towing of a distressed ship to port or safe anchorage is optional and cannot be insisted on.