1&2 Introduction
Educational Objectives
3 The Boat
Terminology
Boat Types
Measuring Length
Hull designs
Types of hulls
Propulsion
Carbon Monoxide
Capacity Plate
Engine Systems
Checklist
Review Quiz - 3
4 Legal Requirements
Who May Operate
Registration and Numbering
Hull ID Number
Required Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices
Navigation Lights
Fire Extinguishers
Ventilation
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Sound Producing Device
Visual Distress Signals
Pollution Regulations
MSDs
No Discharge Zones
Aquatic Nuisance Species
Recommended Equipment
Review Quiz- 4
5 Preparation
Vessel Check List
Trailering
Environmental Conditions
Leeway
Tide and Current
Local Hazards
Float Plan
Preventive Maintenance
Fueling
Review Quiz-5
6 Operations
Operator responsibility
Homeland Security
BUI
Navigation Rules
Definitions
Proper Lookout
Seamanship
Sound Signals
Rules of the Road
Meeting & Crossing
Commercial Vessels
Restricted Visibility
Aids to Navigation
Review Quiz-6
7 Getting Underway
Line Handling
Docking/Undocking
Maneuvering Underway
Anchoring
Water Sports
Hunting and Fishing
Swimming
Diving and Snorkling
Paddle Sports
Skiing and Towing
Personal Watercraft
Review Quiz-7
8 Accidents
Fatal Vs Non-fatal
Accident Reports
Crew Overboard
Assistance from Shore
Hypothermia
Fires on Board
First Aid
Rendering Assistance
Running Aground
Review Quiz-8
9 Special Items
Vessel Repairs
Locks
Dams
Security
Sailing
Review Quiz-9
State Requirements
Final Exam

Chapter VI - OperationsSection 2a - Navigation Rules

Sound Signals

Every vessel is required to carry some kind of efficient sound producing device to signal there intentions as outlined below.

Vessels are required to sound signals any time that they are in close quarters and risk of collision exists.

The term “short blast” means a blast of about one second.

The term “prolonged blast” means a blast of from four to six sconds.

The following signals are the only ones to be used to signal a vessel's intentions ( inland rules only).

One short blast - I intend to change course to starboard.

Two short blasts - I intend to change course to port.

Three short blasts - I am operating astern propulsion (backing up).

Five or more short and rapid blasts - Danger or doubt signal (I don’t understand your intent).

Note: Inland rules use sound signals to indicate intent to maneuver and a response should be received. In international rules the signals are given when the maneuver is being executed.

Vessels indicate their intention to maneuver by using sound signals. If you do not agree with or understand clearly what the other vessel's intentions are you should sound the danger or doubt signal (5 short, rapid blasts). Each vessel should then slow or stop until signals for safe passing are sounded, understood and agreed to.

The danger or doubt signal can also be used to tell another vessel that its action is dangerous. If a boat is backing up into an obstruction you would sound the danger signal to warn the operator.

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