Which signal is important for vessel distress communication?

The orange smoke signal is considered an important signal for vessel distress communication because it is highly visible and can be seen over long distances, particularly during daylight. The bright, vivid color creates a conspicuous visual marker that can attract the attention of nearby vessels and rescuers. Smoke signals are especially valuable in search and rescue scenarios, as they can effectively indicate the location of a distressed vessel or an individual in need of help.

In contrast, while a red flare gun and the other signaling devices can also communicate distress, the orange smoke signal is particularly effective for daytime visibility, making it an ideal choice for communication when in distress on the water. Red flares are typically more useful in low-light situations, whereas a whistle or loud horn may not be as effective in drawing attention from a distance, especially if other noise is present in a busy maritime environment.