Editing Distress signal (section)

{{Short description|Internationally recognized means for obtaining help}}
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A '''distress signal''', also known as a '''distress call''', is an internationally recognized means for obtaining help. Distress signals are communicated by transmitting [[radio]] signals, displaying a visually observable item or illumination, or making a sound audible from a distance.

A distress signal indicates that a person or group of people, [[watercraft]], [[aircraft]], or other vehicle is threatened by a serious or imminent danger and requires immediate assistance.<ref name=AIM>[http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/media/aim.pdf Aeronautical Information Manual], U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, 2016</ref>{{rp|PCG D−3}} Use of distress signals in other circumstances may be against local or [[international law]]. An [[pan-pan|urgency signal]] is available to request assistance in less critical situations.

For distress signalling to be the most effective, two parameters must be communicated:
* Alert or notification of an [[emergency]] in progress
* Position or location (or localization or pinpointing) of the party in distress.

For example, a single aerial [[flare]] alerts observers to the existence of a vessel in distress somewhere in the general direction of the flare sighting on the horizon but extinguishes within one minute or less.  A hand-held flare burns for three minutes and can be used to localize or pinpoint more precisely the exact location or position of the party in trouble.  An [[EPIRB]] both notifies or alerts authorities and at the same time provides position indication information.