VMR Education: Signalling Devices

The rate of Volunteer Marine Rescue activations increase has slowed as the last week’s windy conditions restrict movement on the water, but the local organisation are still comfortably ahead of last year to date.

In light of fewer vessels in the water, Volunteer Marine Rescue are taking the opportunity to educate sailors on the use of distress signals, flares and emergency beacons.

If a vessel or individual finds itself in an emergency on the water and needs help, distress signals are the solution, according to the local group.

Signalling devices are compulsory for all boats operating between sunset and sunrise – whether they be a torch, fluorescent light, lantern or cyalume stick – all are suitable as long as they generate enough light to be seen by other boats and prevent a collision and attract attention.

Other distress signals – aside from compulsory radios on board all vessels - include marine radio broadcast, flares, signal mirror, V sheet and sound signal.

Vessels in the vicinity of a signalling boat must be vigilant – an eye on other vessels is always a bright idea - and they must respond to any emergency signals.

Volunteer Marine Rescue said they were aware of some incidents where vessels used emergency signals to indicate that they required assistance but passing vessels did not respond.

For the storage of flares, it is recommended they remain in a dry place where they will be readily accessible in an emergency. They have a lifespan of three years and must be replaced prior to the expiry date.

VMRW membership is “cheap insurance at just $80” and can be joined online at https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/join/

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