Rule 32: Definitions
- The word “whistle” means any sound signalling appliance capable of producing the prescribed blasts and which complies with the specifications in Annex III to these Regulations.
- The term “short blast” means a blast of about one second’s duration.
- The term “prolonged blast” means a blast of from four to six seconds’ duration.
What this means:
Rule 32: Definitions – Our plain English guide to help you understand & remember this rule.
Bells, gongs, whistles and lights make up the various combinations of signals available. However, most of the time, the only signal we’ll use or hear is a whistle. Unfortunately, the term whistle is a little misleading, as it refers to any sound signalling appliance, usually a horn. Bells and gongs are reserved for longer vessels to indicate their length when anchored in restricted visibility.
