psneeld
Guru
Actually it also leaves white... which needs to be bright but not the intensity of the sun as long as the SAR units have an approximate positition.
If just directing a resource to you while away from the dock, a flare will work and smoke is often great as it gives the SAR unit wind and/or drift info.
For USCG helos and most vessels, a handheld VHF is invaluable in close quarters directing.
Red is the weakest of all the color spectrum...but fire boats have no jurisdictional power over that color as it is used in many navigational situations...flashing can occur when it is partially obscured so the concept is without merit. Blue is definitely a no-no.
While red/amber gives no special meaning...it is somewhat reserved for public safety activities.
Bottom line...if a life is at stake...pretty much whatever works is good and "probably" will not get you in trouble...especially if the life is saved... learned that the hard way in over 35 years of responding to on the water emergencies.
If just directing a resource to you while away from the dock, a flare will work and smoke is often great as it gives the SAR unit wind and/or drift info.
For USCG helos and most vessels, a handheld VHF is invaluable in close quarters directing.
Red is the weakest of all the color spectrum...but fire boats have no jurisdictional power over that color as it is used in many navigational situations...flashing can occur when it is partially obscured so the concept is without merit. Blue is definitely a no-no.
While red/amber gives no special meaning...it is somewhat reserved for public safety activities.
Bottom line...if a life is at stake...pretty much whatever works is good and "probably" will not get you in trouble...especially if the life is saved... learned that the hard way in over 35 years of responding to on the water emergencies.
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