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Distress signalsQuestion 270 of 352

Which signal tells others that a vessel needs help?

  1. Slowly raising and lowering outstretched arms
  2. Waving one arm quickly
  3. Holding both arms still
  4. Pointing at the sky
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Correct answer: Slowly raising and lowering outstretched arms

Slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering both arms is a distress signal.

Source: US Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), 33 CFR Part 87: Annex IV: Distress Signals, § 87.01 Need of assistance

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026