Two red lights in a straight line may be used to indicate that a boat is broken down. Which option correctly describes this signal?

Two red lights in a straight line may be used to indicate that a boat is broken down. Which option correctly describes this signal?

• A. Two red lights in a V-shape
• B. Two white lights in a straight line
• C. Two red lights in a straight line
• D. Three red lights in a line

Answer: (C)

Recognizing distress signals at night relies on light color and arrangement. Two red lights in a straight line is the established signal that a vessel is broken down and needs assistance. The red color conveys danger and a request for help, and arranging them in a straight line makes the message clear and unambiguous to other vessels at distance. The other patterns don’t fit this standard distress signal: a V-shape of red lights isn’t the recognized indicator for a breakdown, two white lights in a straight line aren’t used to signal distress, and three red lights in a line denote a different signaling pattern. If you see two red lights in a straight line, take it as a call for help and respond as safety allows.

Recognizing distress signals at night relies on light color and arrangement. Two red lights in a straight line is the established signal that a vessel is broken down and needs assistance. The red color conveys danger and a request for help, and arranging them in a straight line makes the message clear and unambiguous to other vessels at distance.

The other patterns don’t fit this standard distress signal: a V-shape of red lights isn’t the recognized indicator for a breakdown, two white lights in a straight line aren’t used to signal distress, and three red lights in a line denote a different signaling pattern. If you see two red lights in a straight line, take it as a call for help and respond as safety allows.