For very small craft under 7 meters lacking running lights, what is an acceptable display?

For very small craft under 7 meters lacking running lights, what is an acceptable display?

• A. Candle
• B. Flashlight
• C. Lantern
• D. Flares

Answer: (B)

Signaling at night on a very small craft without running lights relies on a portable, continuous white light to show you’re present to other vessels. A flashlight fits this purpose well because it’s quick to use, portable, and emits a clear white beam that others can see, helping prevent collisions without needing fixed onboard lights. Candles or lanterns use flame, which is easily blown out by wind and less reliable for lasting visibility, and can pose a fire risk in rough conditions. Flares are distress signals meant for emergencies and rescuers, not for everyday navigation or presence signaling. Therefore they aren’t appropriate for normal display. So a flashlight provides a practical, safe, and effective way to indicate your presence when running lights aren’t available.

Signaling at night on a very small craft without running lights relies on a portable, continuous white light to show you’re present to other vessels. A flashlight fits this purpose well because it’s quick to use, portable, and emits a clear white beam that others can see, helping prevent collisions without needing fixed onboard lights.

Candles or lanterns use flame, which is easily blown out by wind and less reliable for lasting visibility, and can pose a fire risk in rough conditions. Flares are distress signals meant for emergencies and rescuers, not for everyday navigation or presence signaling. Therefore they aren’t appropriate for normal display.

So a flashlight provides a practical, safe, and effective way to indicate your presence when running lights aren’t available.