Re: [Paddlewise] Use of a strobe

It is inappropriate to use a strobe to increase your visibility to other
craft, exceot as detailed below.  Your question is best answered by the USCG
posting at the Navigation Center's FAQ's.  Here's a link and the info from the
site:

http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/mwv/navrules/navrules_faq.htm - 0.3_13
Can I use Strobe Lights to be more visible at night? For any other lights
beyond those specifically defined within the Navigation Rules they should be
such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules, or
do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the
keeping of a proper look-out (Rule 20).
Displaying a strobe for bhigher visibilityb would confuse other vessels as
to your navigational status (many aids to navigation use a strobe or
flashing). Also, lights provide direction and aspect information to other boat
operators. For example, if while operating my vessel I see a red light on my
starboard side I know I am the give-way vessel (Rule 16, 17). The use of a
strobe light could overwhelm a vesselbs navigation lights and cease to
provide such crucial direction and aspect information to other boat operators.
Also, Rule 36 of the International Rules addresses signals to attract
attention and for the purpose of [that] rule the use of high intensity
intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall be avoided.
Rule 37 of the Inland Rules addresses strobes in regards to distress signals
so that when a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall useb&a
high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals from 50 to 70 times
per minute.
Since strobe light use is to be avoided (International waters) or used as a
distress signal (Inland waters), it cannot be used to routinely mark vessels
operating on the water.

John Browning
Milwaukee, Wisconsin



-----Original Message-----
From: nbrunner_at_telus.net
To: paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net
Sent: Fri, 29 Sep 2006 9:59 AM
Subject: [Paddlewise] Use of a strobe


 I have been reading conflicting opinions (go figure) on whether it is
appropriate to use a strobe at night strictly to be seen or not. Other
articles say it should be used for emergencies only. I would like to hear
some thoughts from the list on this.

Tom
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