Re: [Paddlewise] Night Gear and red LEDs

From: Michael Neverdosky <MichaelN_at_cycat.com>
Date: Sat, 09 May 1998 10:05:35 -0400
rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com wrote:

> something.  That is why no flashing lights of any color on the water to
> be used on any type of vessel.  White flashing lights in distress strobe
> use are the exception.

Please CITE the rule, chapter and verse.

Unless you can post the EXACT RULE that says this so that the rest of us
can go look it up, pleas STOP POSTING INCORRECT INFORMATION!

In fact the rules REQUIRE a flashing yellow light for air-cushion vessels.
See COLREGS Rule 23 part (b).

The only rule I can find that has anything like a prohibition of flashing
or rotating lights is;

Rule 36. Signals to Attract Attention

"If necessary to attract attention of another vessel, any vessel may make
light or
sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere
in these
Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the direction of the
danger, in
such a way as not to embarrass any vessel. Any light to attract the
attention of
another vessel shall be such that it cannot be mistaken for any aid to
navigation.
For the purpose of this Rule the use of high intensity intermittent or
revolving
lights, such as strobe lights, shall be avoided."

It would seem that the blue revolving lights on harbor patrol, coast
guard, and
police boats would violate this rule. If the want to write you up for a
flashing light
make them also write themselves up at the same time.

There is no way that any bicycle LED flasher I have ever seen sould be
mistaken for
any navigation aid, removing that objection.

The primary need is to make yourself visible, Visible, VISIBLE!

If I were going to be kayaking at night a lot, I would embedd LEDs all
around the hull
and in my paddle so that someone would have to be completely blind to not
see me.
I would also carry a VERY BRIGHT dive light (Bottom Light by Princeton
Tectonics)
to shine on my boat and if needed at an aproaching vessel to make sure
that they 
know that I an there.

If someone runs you down at night and you die, there will be no one to
argue
the point of the legality of your lights.

michael
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Received on Sat May 09 1998 - 07:05:47 PDT

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