The US Coast Guard National Maritime Center issued a bulletin to inform mariners and training providers of changes to the Code of Federal Regulations, 33 CFR Subchapter E – Inland Navigation Rules. This change, advertised in the Federal Register, Volume 83, Number 16, on 24 January, removed the word “danger” from rule 34.
Removal of the word ‘danger’ from this regulation, in addition to alignment with the 72 COLREGS, also alleviates potential ambiguity, the USCG explains.
The signal described in Rule 34(d) is specific to a vessel that does not clearly understand the intentions or actions of another vessel, or is in doubt if sufficient action is being taken to avoid collision. It is a signal of warning as the title of Rule 34 indicates: ‘Maneuvering and warning signals.’ Vessels may use this signal even when ‘danger’ is not present.
Training providers should review current curricula containing training on the Navigation Rules and modify materials and examinations accordingly. These changes:
- Are not considered significant;
- Need not be submitted to the National Maritime Center for approval;
- Must be recorded in accordance with 46 CFR 10.403; and,
- Will be reviewed at the next renewal.
Mariners should be aware of this change in order to remain current in their professional knowledge and in preparing to take required Coast Guard credentialing examinations.
