Global Sports: Rules Regarding Marine Navigation Lights

Monday, April 18, 2011

Rules Regarding Marine Navigation Lights

By Janet Gaye Walker


It is very important that any vessel that is on water is displaying the correct marine navigation lights at all times, no matter the time of day or the weather conditions. This helps with safety so that others can spot the vessel from certain distances. The lights help to prevent collisions since others know your vessel size and where it is traveling at all times of the day, since many do travel at night and in bad weather conditions.

Any vessel that is less than 40 feet in length are supposed to have a masthead light but there are certain situations when this is not needed; for example, if you have a very strong white stern light placed on the smaller mast. Both of these lights are required if you have a vessel that is longer than 40 feet. These lights should be visible from any direction of travel.

The vessel should have correct sidelights installed at the front and there are certain colors that need to be placed in certain places to help with denoting the direction that the boat is travelling in from a distance. Green marine navigation lights are placed on the starboard side - the right - while a red light is placed on the port side - the left. These lights can be placed next to each other or separate, as long as they are on the correct side, and must be turned on between sunrise and sunset, even if visibility is excellent.

When it comes to the use of a sailing craft, there are different rules. Anything that is less than 23 feet is to have the stern light and the sidelights. However, the sizes of vessels can sometimes prevent lights being placed on the boat so it can sometimes be possible to use a good torch instead, as long as others are able to see you clearly.

It is important that all rules regarding find good marine radar systemsare adhered to for the safety of other boat users and should be regarded as being similar to a car driver on the road. You should make sure you know all the rules concerning cheap marine navigation lights and understand the distances of the visibility of the lights.




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