2008 REED’s East Coast Edition - Communications
the Coast Guard distress signal requirement. quently seen attached to a float, which in turn
Signaling lamps must be pointed directly in is attached to the diver by a tether. As the div-
the direction of the other vessel. er moves below the surface, the warning flag
Sound Signaling
follows along. Unfortunately, this can give the
diver a false sense of security—showing the
Although signaling between vessels may be
diving flag does not relieve the diver of the
carried out by whistle using the Morse Code,
responsibility of staying clear of channels and
this is a slow method and, unless in open wa-
navigation aids. The dive flag should not be
ters, should never be resorted to. Confusion
flown on a permanent basis, as is seen aboard
as to any sound signals given, or their mis-
some dive boats. The flag should only be used
interpretation, can have disastrous results.
when divers are actually in the water.
Sound signals are best left to those specified
Give any vessels flying this flag a very wide
in the Navigation Rules.
berth and proceed at slow speed. Keep in
International Diving Flag
mind the possibility of floating tethers,
The International Code Flag A means, “I have
lifelines and other temporary obstructions
a diver down; keep well clear at slow speed.”
in the vicinity of any divers. Divers near
In the United States only, divers commonly
channels should have an observer stationed
show a red flag with a diagonal white stripe.
aboard the dive boat. Mariners are urged to
The meaning of this flag is the same as Inter-
contact the observer if in any doubt as to the
national Code Flag A. The diving flag is fre-
location of dive operations.
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