Distress Signal

What Is a Distress Signal?

A distress signal is a visual or audible alert that communicates an emergency situation at sea and calls for immediate assistance. It’s an internationally recognized safety requirement for all vessels operating in coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and the high seas.

If you experience engine failure, collision, onboard fire, or a person overboard, a proper distress signal ensures nearby vessels and the U.S. Coast Guard can respond quickly. Every second counts, and having USCG-approved distress devices on board can make all the difference.

Types of Marine Distress Signals

Marine distress signals fall into two main categories: visual and sound. Regulations require at least three day-use and three night-use devices that meet U.S. Coast Guard standards.

Modern electronic distress lights are now accepted as pyrotechnic flare replacements. DRSA offers several USCG-approved electronic options, including:

• Ocean Signal RescueME EDF1 Electronic Distress Flare – 7-Mile Range
  This product is bright, reusable, and visible up to 7 miles with multiple flash patterns.

• ACR ResQFlare PRO
  USCG-compliant electronic flare that replaces traditional pyrotechnic flares with a 6-hour runtime and includes a daytime flag.

• ACR ResQFlare Electronic Flare Flag Kit
  Compact, lightweight, and perfect for smaller vessels.

Sound Signaling Devices

Sound signals are often paired with visual distress lights to boost detection range. Common devices include horns, whistles, and bells, which can transmit S.O.S. in Morse code (three short blasts, three long blasts, three short blasts).

These tools are especially critical during fog, rain, or poor visibility when lights alone may not be noticed.

For added visibility, a Hella Twin Beam Handheld Search Light or other DRSA LED spotlight can double as an emergency signaling light.

Satellite and Locator-Based Distress Devices

Beyond flares and smoke signals, modern emergency systems use satellite technology to instantly transmit your location to rescuers. DRSA carries advanced safety solutions, including:

• ACR GlobalFix V5 and V6 EPIRBs – GPS-equipped beacons with AIS and Return Link Service for instant rescue confirmation.

• ACR ResQLink 410 RLS and 435 View PLBs – Compact personal locator beacons ideal for crew members and solo boaters.

• Lunasea Water-Activated Strobe Lights – Automatically activate upon immersion, perfect for life jackets or pets.

Each of these devices is USCG-approved, waterproof, and designed for long-term reliability at sea.

Distress Signal Regulations

The U.S. Coast Guard requires that:

• Boats 16 feet or longer carry approved day and night distress signals.

• Devices must be readily accessible in emergencies.

• Expired pyrotechnics must be replaced every 42 months and properly disposed of.

• Electronic SOS lights are now legal alternatives to flares for nighttime use.

Check the latest compliance standards and Navigation and Safety Lights at DRSA.com to ensure your vessel meets USCG requirements.

Why Every Boat Needs a Distress Signal Kit

A complete distress signal kit ensures you’re ready for any emergency. Whether it’s electronic or pyrotechnic, these systems are designed to:

• Provide faster emergency response when seconds matter

• Offer visibility up to several miles day or night

• Operate reliably in harsh marine conditions

• Maintain legal compliance under federal boating regulations

Shop DRSA’s full line of Marine Safety and Distress Products including flares, beacons, locator lights, and EPIRBs all designed for performance and durability when lives depend on it.

FAQs About Marine Distress Signals

Are electronic distress signals Coast Guard approved?

Yes. The U.S. Coast Guard now recognizes electronic visual distress signals (eVDSDs) as legal nighttime alternatives to flares. Products like the Ocean Signal RescueME EDF1 Electronic Distress Flare and the ACR ResQFlare PRO meet USCG requirements and provide up to 7 miles of visibility with multiple flash patterns, all without the fire risk of pyrotechnics.

What’s the difference between an EPIRB and a PLB?

Both devices send emergency distress alerts, but they serve slightly different purposes:

• EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon): Designed for your vessel, automatically activates when submerged, and transmits your location via satellite. See ACR GlobalFix V5 and V6 EPIRBs.

• PLB (Personal Locator Beacon): Portable and manually activated, designed for individual use. Ideal for crew members or solo boaters. See ACR ResQLink 410 RLS and 435 View PLBs.

How long do marine flares and distress signals last?

Traditional pyrotechnic flares are valid for 42 months from the manufacture date. Electronic distress lights and LED SOS beacons, like the ACR ResQFlare Electronic Flare Flag Kit, have battery-powered runtimes up to 6 hours per use and can be reused for years with proper care.

Do I still need flares if I have an electronic distress light?

For most recreational boats, a USCG-approved LED SOS light can replace nighttime pyrotechnic flares. However, you must still carry daytime visual distress signals such as orange smoke or flags. Many boaters carry both for redundancy and safety. Explore Orion Signaling Kits at DRSA for a complete daytime package.

How far can electronic distress signals be seen?

Depending on the model and visibility conditions, LED distress flares can be seen up to 7 miles away at night. The Ocean Signal EDF1 offers industry-leading brightness with multiple flash patterns to attract rescuers faster.

What should be included in a complete distress signal kit?

A proper marine distress kit should include:

• Three day-use and three night-use USCG-approved signals

• An electronic flare or pyrotechnic flares

• Orange smoke signals and flags for daytime

• Whistle or sound-producing device

• Searchlight or spotlight like the Hella Twin Beam Handheld Search Light

• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for individual crew members

Explore complete Distress and Safety Kits at DRSA.com to stay compliant and prepared.

Are distress signals required on small boats?

Yes, any vessel 16 feet or longer operating on U.S. coastal waters or the Great Lakes must carry approved day and night distress signals. Smaller boats under 16 feet only need them when operating at night or in coastal waters.

Can I reuse an electronic flare?

Yes. Electronic SOS devices like the ACR ResQFlare PRO and Ocean Signal EDF1 are reusable and powered by replaceable batteries. They provide years of service when maintained properly, unlike single-use pyrotechnic flares.

Do LED SOS lights replace pyrotechnic flares completely?

For most recreational vessels, yes, if your LED distress light is USCG-approved and emits the required flash pattern (SOS in Morse code). However, for offshore or international travel, it’s recommended to carry both LED and pyrotechnic options to ensure full compliance in all regions.

What’s the best personal emergency beacon for offshore boating?

For offshore trips, we recommend an EPIRB with GPS and AIS Return Link Service, like the ACR GlobalFix V5 Cat 2 EPIRB. It automatically activates upon immersion, sending your location directly to international rescue satellites for the fastest possible response.

Example in a Sentence

“The Coast Guard spotted the yacht’s orange smoke and LED distress signal and responded immediately with rescue assistance.”

Related Terms: navigation lights, searchlight, EPIRB, signal flare, LED SOS light

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