International Code of Signals

Flashcards about the International Code of Signals

What is the purpose of the International Code of Signals (ICS)?

To provide a standardized system of signals for maritime communication.

What do international code of signal flags consist of?

Flags and pennants of varying colors, shapes, and markings.

How do signal flags communicate complex messages?

By using flags together to spell out words.

How many types of flags are used in the International Code of Signals?

Four

Name the four kinds of flags

Alphabet flags, Numeric pennants, Answering pennant, Substitute pennants

How many alphabet flags are there?

26

How many numeric pennants are there?

10

How many answering pennants are there?

1

How many substitute pennants are there?

3

What colors are used in the design of signal flags?

Red, blue, black, and white

Why are those colors used

Because these are most easily distinguished at sea.

What does the Alpha flag mean?

I have a diver down. Keep well clear at slow speed.

What does the Bravo flag mean?

I am taking in or discharging or carrying dangerous goods.

What does the Charlie flag mean?

Yes (Affirmative)

What does the Delta flag mean?

Keep clear of me; I am maneuvering with difficulty.

What does the Echo flag mean?

I am altering my course to starboard.

What does the Foxtrot flag mean?

I am disabled, communicate with me.

What does the Golf flag mean?

I require a pilot, or when made by a fishing vessel at sea, “I am hauling nets”.

What does the Hotel flag mean?

I have a pilot on board.

What does the India flag mean?

I am altering my course to port.

What does the Juliet flag mean?

I am on fire and have dangerous cargo on board, keep well clear of me.

What does the Kilo flag mean?

I wish to communicate with you.

What does the Lima flag mean?

You should stop your vessel instantly. The vessel is in quarantine.

What does the Mike flag mean?

My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water.

What does the November flag mean?

NO (Negative)

What does the Oscar flag mean?

Man Overboard

What does the Papa flag mean?

All persons to report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea. “My nets are fast upon an obstruction”

What does the Quebec flag mean?

My vessel is healthy and I request free pratique.

What does the Romeo flag mean?

The way is off my vessel.

What does the Sierra flag mean?

I am operating astern propulsion.

What does the Tango flag mean?

Keep clear of me; I am engaged in pair trawling.

What does the Uniform flag mean?

You are running into danger.

What does the Victor flag mean?

I require assistance.

What does the Whiskey flag mean?

I require medical assistance.

What does the X-ray flag mean?

Stop carrying out your intentions and watch for my signals.

What does the Yankee flag mean?

I am dragging my anchor.

What does the Zulu flag mean?

I require a tug. "I am shooting nets"

What is the purpose of numeral pennants?

To communicate numbers ranging from 1-10.

What is the purpose of substitute and answering pennants?

To communicate various messages when used in conjunction with alphabet flags and numeral pennants.

When are substitute flags used?

When you wish to show a flag that has already been used in a message.