Three Top Manual Signaling Devices
Technological advancements have made us all exponentially safer every time we set out on the water, but there’s still something to be said for bringing aboard a few inexpensive, tried-and-true safety devices that don’t require a power source or any kind of operator instruction. Here are three simple safety devices to keep on board just in case.
Courtesy West Marine
Reflect: EchoMaster Radar Reflector
Saving Grace: Small boats don’t always show up on the radar screens of larger vessels, which could make you invisible to traffic. Adding a radar reflector such as an EchoMaster from Davis Instruments can solve the problem. The standard EchoMaster, when assembled, creates a 12-square-meter cross section visible in the standard 9-9.6 GHz X radar band, making your boat visible to others with radar.
The Snag: Must be installed at the highest point on your boat, so small vessels lacking towers or T-tops might not get the full benefit. You could still disappear in another boat’s “main bang.”
Price: $107.99; westmarine.com
Courtesy West Marine
Signal: Orion Signaling Mirror
Saving Grace: A signaling mirror fits in your pocket and, in dire situations when all else fails, can be used to reflect the sun’s rays to catch the eye of another passing vessel and alert them that you need help. It doesn’t cost much, doesn’t need batteries, and can catch someone else’s attention if you need it. It comes with a lanyard, so you can attach it to your person should you be in the water. The 3-by-4-inch acrylic mirror does not corrode and features rounded corners so that it won’t scrape or snag.
The Snag: Requires a light source to reflect and, although it could be visible for up to 10 miles, is more for close-range signaling.
Price: $15.99; westmarine.com
Read Next: Best Marine Flare Guns & Visual Distress Signals
Courtesy West Marine
Alert: Jet Logic Safety Whistle
Saving Grace: This high-pitched whistle comes with a floating lanyard that clips to your belt or life vest. It’s another inexpensive item that’s easy to carry if you need it. If you’re stuck adrift or taking on water and can’t raise help on your VHF, sometimes a shrill noise can alert a passing vessel that you need help. Again, it doesn’t need batteries or maintenance; you just pull it out and blow. Because it’s made out of plastic, you don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion.
The Snag: Might be hard to hear over ambient wind and engine noise, and works only if other vessels are in close proximity to yours.
Price: $7.99; westmarine.com
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