Use of signaling equipment including pyrotechnics. Pyrotechnic signaling devices, signal flares, night and day signal cartridges PSND, false flares, ground signal cartridge, device features and applications
Light pyro technical means Alarms are used to provide distress signals and to attract attention. These include flares, flares, self-igniting fires and self-activating smoke bombs for lifebuoys, as well as floating smoke bombs.
Pyrotechnic signaling devices must be moisture-resistant, safe to handle and store, operate in any marine hydrometeorological conditions and retain their properties for at least 3 years. They should go out when descending at a height of at least 50m from the sea surface.
According to the Rules of the Register of the Russian Federation, pyrotechnic means are subject to periodic certification by external inspection once every 2 years. Pyrotechnics Passenger ships are subject to inspection annually.
Marking of pyrotechnic means is carried out with indelible paint. The marking includes the release date, the period for the pyrotechnic itself, and for its packaging.
Sonic rocket, or grenade, exploding at a height, imitates a cannon shot. In the rocket tube under the ignition device there is an explosive cartridge in an aluminum shell, consisting of 2 charges. The upper one is thrown out of the rocket body by the lower one. The sound rocket is launched from launch tubes mounted on the gunwale or railing on both wings of the bridge. Having removed the cap from the tail of the rocket, pass the cord with the ring along the groove in the side of the glass to its bottom hole and pull it out with a strong tug.
Geographic coordinates. Latitude difference and longitude difference
Geographic latitude– this is the angle at the center of the Earth, the angle between the plane of the equator and a plumb line drawn through the observer’s point
Latitude is measured from the equator to the parallel of a given point from 0 to 90 degrees
Geographic longitude - the dihedral angle between the plane of the Greenwich meridian and the plane of the observer's meridian
Measured from a given point from 0 to 180 degrees
РШ = Fi2 – Fi1
RD = lambda2 – lambda1
If phi N , then the sign is + if phi S , then the sign is –
If lambda E, then the sign is +; if lambda is W, then the sign is –
RS and RD should not exceed 180 degrees
Shirata2=shirata1+ RS; Longitude2= longitude1+ taxiway
The use of these formulas ensures the calculation of RS and RD corrections with errors not exceeding a few meters, which satisfies the requirements for the accuracy of navigation map solutions.
Changes in precipitation with changes in water salinity
When a ship moves from one water basin to another, the salinity (density) of the sea water changes. When sailing in water with densities ρ and ρ 1, the vessel’s displacement will be, respectively: D = ρ × V and D = ρ 1 × V 1, where V is the volumetric displacement of the vessel before moving into water of a different density; V 1 - volumetric displacement of the vessel after the transition. Equating the right-hand sides of the equalities, we obtain: ρ×V = ρ 1 ×V 1 or V/V 1 = ρ 1 /ρ.
Volumetric displacement can be expressed through the main dimensions L, B, T and the coefficient of overall completeness (δ - the ratio of displacement to the volume of the described parallelepiped): V = δ × L × B × T and V 1 = δ 1 × L 1 × B 1 × T 1
With small changes in volumetric displacement, that is, with changes in water salinity, the length, width and overall fullness coefficient practically do not change. In this case, the change in displacement occurs due to a change in draft. Thus: ρ×T = ρ1×T1or T/T 1 = ρ 1 /ρ. Consequently, when a ship moves from water of one salinity to water of another, the salinity of its sediment changes approximately in inverse proportion to the density of the water.
The change in volumetric displacement is determined using the expression:
ΔV = V 1 - V = D/ ρ 1 - D/ ρ = D(ρ - ρ 1)/(ρ×ρ 1) or ΔV = V×(ρ - ρ1)/ρ1.
But V = S×ΔT. Then: S×ΔТ = V×(ρ - ρ 1)/ρ 1 => ΔТ = V/S × (ρ - ρ 1)/ρ 1 or
ΔТ = D/(S×ρ) × (ρ - ρ 1)/ρ 1
When the ship is passing from fresh water(ρ = 1.0 t/m 3) into the sea (ρ = 1.025 t/m 3) the ship will float, i.e. the vessel's draft will decrease. When a ship moves from sea water to fresh water, the change in draft will be positive, the ship will submerge in water, i.e. its draft will increase.
Tasks of visual observation on a ship and the form of reporting a detected target to the lookout
Maintaining continuous visual and auditory surveillance is the most important task of a navigational watch.
The main requirement for organizing surveillance: it must be continuous in time and space. The entire situation around the ship must be constantly monitored (including not only the water surface, but also observation of coastal and air objects and even celestial bodies). For example, there are known cases when the movement of a ship on the wrong course, due to a compass error, was detected by the “wrong” location of the constellations. Observation is such an important task that STCW 78/95 prohibits the assignment of any duties to the observer that may interfere with or impede observation.
It is specially stipulated that the helmsman and the lookout have different responsibilities and the helmsman cannot be considered an observer. An exception is made for small vessels, where an all-round unobstructed view is provided from the helmsman's position.
Depending on the situation, surveillance on the ship is carried out by:
· watch officer (officer of the watch);
· additionally one of the navigators located on the bridge to strengthen the navigational watch (most often the captain (CM) or the chief mate (SPKM));
· watch sailor observer (lookout);
· crew members assigned as alarm observers.
The officer in charge of the watch may be the only observer during daylight hours if the situation is clearly safe and weather, visibility, traffic density and navigation conditions permit this. In this case, the sailor on watch may be released from the bridge to perform any other work or duties, provided that he is immediately available to report to the bridge. The watchman's call to the bridge is carried out either via his portable VHF radio station, or by giving one short call with loud bells intended to sound an alarm. Upon hearing such a signal, the sailor on watch must immediately arrive on the bridge.
Because observation is watch , then the lookout's taking over the watch, keeping the watch and turning it over must be carried out in accordance with all the requirements for a running watch:
· when taking over the watch, you should ask permission from the watch officer to change the lookout, accept the situation from him (where and what is visible, what was the last report, what special instructions and orders were there), report on taking over the watch;
· keep a vigilant watch, continuously being on duty and showing increased attention;
· when a replacement appears, obtain permission to take over the watch, convey to him information about the surrounding situation, the latest report, special instructions and orders, report on the end of the watch, and obtain permission to leave the post.
Observation tasks.
According to STCW 78/95, proper supervision is one that allows:
· fully assess the situation and the risk of collision, grounding, and other navigational hazards;
· detect ships, planes or people in distress, remains and traces of shipwrecks.
It should be remembered that in observation no small details. The initial small floating object that is not identifiable may be a float marking a net, a floating mine, or the head of a person for whom being seen by a ship's observer is the only chance of escape.
To properly perform these surveillance tasks you must be able to:
· detect objects in a timely manner;
· quickly identify them;
· determine directions and distances by eye;
· control the movements of observed objects.
Report forms
There are three main requirements for the lookout's report: timeliness, accuracy and reliability.
Immediately after the object is discovered, the first report should follow, even if the object has not yet been identified. There is no need to wait for further approach to identify the object. It is better to report in a timely manner, using the words “unknown object”, “incomprehensible sound”, and in subsequent reports clarify the characteristics of the object.
The report must be as accurate as possible both in the characteristics of the object and in the direction and distance to it. It is necessary to constantly train in visually determining directions and distances, especially in the conditions of the bridge, where it is possible to clarify the positions of targets using radar.
The report must be reliable. You never have to think of anything on your own or assume anything. Main principle report: “What I see (hear), that’s what I report.”
As a rule, the officer of the watch (VPKM) reports to the captain (CM) about detected objects in the following sequence: what, where, how. For example: “Fishing boat on starboard 30, range 5 miles, bearing changing to bow.”
However, the lookout more often reports to the VPKM in a different sequence: direction, what, distance. The direction is indicated:
· heading angle from 0 to 180 degrees (rounded to 5 - 10 degrees);
· approximate direction using the words: abeam, ahead of the beam, behind the beam, along the bow, along the stern.
If a flying object is detected, it is additionally reported elevation angle from 0 to 90 degrees (from the horizon up).
As a characteristic of an object, its most characteristic or most important feature for navigation is indicated.
The distance is reported in cable lengths and determined by eye.
Below are examples of typical reports.
“On the right is 20 white constant light.”
“On the left 45 two white constant lights in solution to the left.”
“There is a 50 red flashing light on the left, a distance of 5 cables.”
“On the right ahead of the beam I hear four strokes of the bell.”
“The silhouette of a ship is directly ahead.”
“Something is getting dark right ahead.”
“On the right abeam, elevation angle 5, helicopter.”
“There is 5 floating object on the left.”
Marine site Russia no November 14, 2016 Created: November 14, 2016 Updated: November 14, 2016 Views: 11890
Ship facilities Communications and signaling are classified according to two main criteria: the purpose and nature of the signals. According to their purpose, communication means are divided into external and internal communication means.
External communication means serve to ensure the safety of navigation, communication with other ships, coastal posts and stations, designation of the type of activity of the vessel, its condition, etc.
The ship's external communications equipment includes:
radio communication;
sound;
visual;
emergency radio equipment;
pyrotechnic.
Internal communications and alarm systems are designed to ensure alarms and other signals, as well as reliable communication between the bridge and all posts and services.
These means include ship automatic telephone exchange(PBX), ship's public address system, engine telegraph, loud chimes, ship's bell, megaphone, portable VHF radios, mouth whistle, sound and light alarm about an increase in temperature, the appearance of smoke, the flow of water into the ship's premises.
The most important part of maritime signaling is the lights, signs, light and sound signals provided for by COLREG-72.
Audio communications and alarms
Audio communication and signaling equipment is intended, first of all, to provide signals in accordance with COLREG-72. An audible alarm can also 
be used to transmit messages both via MSS-65 and, for example, for communication between an icebreaker and the ships it carries.
Sound means include: a ship's whistle or typhon, a bell, a foghorn and a gong.
Whistle and typhon are the main means for giving sound signals in accordance with COLREG-72. Sound signals are issued from the wheelhouse and from the bridge wings by pressing the signal button.
When sailing in conditions of limited visibility, a special device is turned on, which gives fog signals according to a given program.
The ship's bell is installed in the bow of the ship, near the windlass. It is used to transmit signals to the bridge when the vessel is anchoring and unanchoring, to provide fog signals when the vessel is anchored, aground, to provide an additional signal in case of a fire in the port, etc.
The fog horn is a backup fog alarm. It is used to provide fog signals when a whistle or typhon fails.
The gong is used to give fog signals prescribed by rule 35(g) COLREG-72.
Audio communications and alarms
Visual communication and signaling devices
Visual aids can be light or object. Lighting devices include various light-signaling devices - signal lamps, spotlights, ratier, klotik and distinctive lights.
The range of signaling devices is usually no more than 5 miles.
Signal figures and signal flags of the International Code of Signals (MCS-65) are used as subject means.
Signal figures - balls, cylinders, cones and diamonds on ships are used in accordance with the requirements of COLREG-72. The figures are made from tin, plywood, wire and canvas.
Their sizes are determined by the Register. They are stored on the upper bridge, except for the anchor ball, which is located on the forecastle.
Marine vessels use the International Code of Signals (MCS-65), a set of which consists of 40 flags: 26 alphabetic, 14 digital, 3 replacement and a response pennant. These flags are hoisted on halyards and stored in the wheelhouse in special honeycomb boxes.
, which was adopted by IMCO in 1965 and put into effect on April 1. 1969, is intended for communication in various ways and means, especially in cases where language communication difficulties arise. When compiling the international code, it was taken into account that in the absence of language difficulties, the use of maritime radio communication systems provides simpler and more effective communication.
The code is intended for negotiations on issues of ensuring the safety of navigation and the protection of human life at sea using one-, two-, and three-letter signals.
It consists of six sections:
1. Rules of use for all types of communications.
2. Single-letter signals for urgent, important messages.
3. General section of two-letter signals.
4. Medical section.
5. Alphabetical indexes defining words.
6. Applications on loose-leaf pages that contain distress signals, rescue signals and the procedure for radiotelephone conversations.
Each signal of the International Code has a complete semantic meaning. In order to expand the meaning of the main signal, digital additions are used with some of them.
General rules
1. Only one flag signal should be raised at a time.
2. Each signal or group of signals should be left raised until the receiving station responds.
3. When more than one group of signals is hoisted on the same halyard, each of them should be separated from the other by a dividing halyard.
The call sign of the called station should be hoisted simultaneously with the signal on a separate halyard. If the call sign is not raised, this means that the signal is addressed to all stations located within the range of the signals.
All stations to which the signals are addressed or indicated in the signals, as soon as they see them, must raise the answering pennant to half, and immediately after clearing the signal - to the place; The response pennant should be lowered to half as soon as the transmitting station lowers the signal, and raised again to its place after parsing the next signal.
End of signal exchange
After the release of the last flag signal, the transmitting station must raise a response pennant indicating that this signal is the last. The receiving station should respond to this in the same way as all other signals.
Actions when the signal is not understood
If the receiving station cannot distinguish the signal transmitted for it, then it must hold the reply pennant at half-mast. If the signal is distinguishable, but its meaning is not clear, then the receiving station can raise the following signals:
Replacement pennants are used when the same flag (or digital pennant) needs to be used multiple times in a signal and only one set of flags is available.
The first replacement pennant always repeats the topmost signal flag of the type of flag (divided by type into alphabetic and digital) that precedes the replacement one. The second substitute always repeats the second, and the third substitute always repeats the third signal flag from the top of the type of flag that precedes the substitute.
A replacement pennant may never be used more than once in the same group.
The response pennant, when used as a decimal sign, should not be taken into account when determining which substitute to use.
Two-letter signals constitute a general section of the code and serve for negotiations related to the safety of navigation. For example, you need to request “What is your draft at the stern?” The word “draft” in this case will be a qualifier. For the letter “o” we find the word “draft”. On the page indicated next to this word, we find that this text corresponds NT signal. This signal corresponds to the request “What is your draft?” Below this signal are NT signals with digital additions from 1 to 9. From these signals we select NT9, which corresponds to the required request.
For ease of analysis, the signals in the International Code are arranged in alphabetical order, and their first letters are indicated on the side flaps. For example, to parse the CZ signal, you need to open the book on the valve of the letter “C”, then find the second letter “Z” and read the meaning of the signal “You must stand upwind to receive a boat or raft.”
Three letter signals used to transmit medical messages. As digital additions to the signals, tables of additions to the medical section are used, in which parts of the body are coded in two-digit numbers (table M l), a list of common diseases (tables M 2.1, M 2.2), and a list of medications (table M 3).
The names of vessels or geographical places in the text of the flag signal should be spelled out. If necessary, the YZ signal can be raised first (The following words are transmitted in clear text).
Special types of signal production
Special types of signal production
National flag Russian Federation
The State Flag of the Russian Federation hoisted on a vessel in the prescribed manner indicates that the vessel belongs to the Russian Federation.
The State Flag of the Russian Federation is flown only on ships that have a certificate of the right to sail under the State Flag of the Russian Federation in accordance with the Merchant Shipping Code. The day of the first raising of the flag is considered a ship holiday and is celebrated annually.
The national flag of the Russian Federation is hoisted on the ship while at rest on the stern flagpole, and while underway - on the gaff or stern flagpole. Small vessels and tugboats when stationary or underway are permitted to fly a flag on a gaff.
The national flag of the Russian Federation is raised daily at 8 o'clock on the move and in parking lots and lowered at sunset. Beyond the Arctic Circle in winter, the State Flag of the Russian Federation must rise daily at 8 o'clock and be in this position within the time limits of its visibility, and in the summer - from 8 to 20 o'clock.
The state flag of the Russian Federation is raised earlier than the established time (up to 8 hours), and also does not fall after sunset when the ship enters and leaves the port.
The raising and lowering of the State Flag of the Russian Federation and other flags is carried out by order of the watch officer.
Flags foreign countries. Flags indicate that the vessel belongs to the corresponding state.
On Russian ships, while docking in a foreign port, as well as when navigating inland waterways, canals and approach fairways under pilot guidance, simultaneously with the State Flag of the Russian Federation raised on the stern flagpole, the flag of the port country must be hoisted on the bow (signal) mast.
On days of all-Russian and local holidays, while docking in ports, Russian ships are colored with the flags of the International Code of Signals, which are carried from the stem through the tops of the masts to the tailrail.
When coloring flags, the combination of their colors must be done in an alternating order.
For coloring the following should not be used:
state and naval flags of the Russian Federation;
stern flags of auxiliary and hydrographic vessels;
flags of officials;
foreign national and military flags and flags of foreign officials;
flag of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.
The raising and lowering of the color flags is carried out simultaneously with the raising and lowering of the State Flag.
Flags of officials. The highest officials of the Russian Federation have their own flags (pennants).
The flags of officials are flown on ships where these officials have their official residence.
Flags (pennants) are raised and lowered with the permission of the persons to whom they were assigned at the time this official entered the ship.
Vessel's call sign. Each vessel is assigned its own call sign in the form of letters or numbers. By call sign you can clearly identify the nationality, type, name of the vessel and its main characteristics.
Detection range pyrotechnic signals disasters in many ways (sometimes decisive degree!) depends on the place where they are served. Even the most powerful rocket can be launched in such a place and at such a time that no one will ever see it. First of all, you need to take into account the time of day and weather conditions.
A bright star in the sky during the day is almost invisible, while at night it attracts attention from many kilometers away. Therefore, during daylight hours it is better to use smoke signals, saving the rocket for the dark. In the same way, a rocket launched into a cloud that accidentally floats above your head can disappear without any benefit. Therefore, if possible, delay the signal for a few seconds, wait for the clouds to pass, or try to get into a part of the sky free of clouds or fog.
To work with flares and smoke bombs, you should choose elevated points of the relief. In this case, we must try to ensure that on the leeward side, where the smoke will be carried, there is an open space - a reservoir, a glacier, a clearing.
When giving a signal, any pyrotechnic device should be held at arm's length, with the nozzle facing away from you. There should be no people standing on the leeward side, nor should there be flammable or fire-resistant objects. It is strictly unacceptable to direct missiles and ammunition towards rescue planes, helicopters, ships!
When using rockets, you should take into account the direction and strength of the wind, which can strongly blow away the parachute with the signal star burning underneath it. If you want the signal to burn above your head, shoot slightly into the wind.
Another purely “missile” mistake is to underestimate the force of its recoil. This is especially true for large parachute rockets! If you do not hold the rocket casing tightly enough, it may jerk downward and slip out of your hands when fired.
And one more very important advice. Most pyrotechnics have a one-time effect, that is, having given a signal once, it cannot be repeated. Therefore, it is necessary to send a signal from as close a distance as possible and only when there is confidence that it will be noticed. For example, when you see a rescue plane or ship or clearly hear the increasing noise of running engines.
While driving, signaling devices must be stored in a place protected from impacts and precipitation and at the same time easily accessible. And during rest stops, keep away from fire. Many pyrotechnics are afraid of heat, intense friction and impacts, from which they can fail or even explode!
In addition to their direct purpose, almost all pyrotechnic signaling devices can be successfully used to scare away predatory animals - white and brown bears, wolves, jackals, etc.
Although it’s a stretch, aerosol cans can be considered the simplest pyrotechnic signaling means. Anything - from hairspray and other cosmetics to repellents. A jet of aerosol released from a can, if passed through the flame of a match or lighter, flares up with a bright torch several tens of centimeters long, visible from the air for several kilometers. The aerosol should be released in short, no more than 1 - 2 s, presses with 2 - 5 second pauses. With more long burning an aerosol jet can explode in your hands!
Marine international signals disasters:
releasing puffs of smoke orange color (1);
flame on the ship (for example, from a burning tar barrel) (2);
rockets or grenades that emit red stars, released one at a time at short intervals (3);
red parachute flare or red flare (4);
flag signal NC (NC) according to the International Code of Signals (5);
a signal consisting of a square flag with a ball above or below it (6);
slow, repeated raising and lowering of arms extended to the sides (7);
cannon shots or explosions made at intervals of about one minute, or a continuous sound produced by any fog signal apparatus (8);
SOS distress signal transmitted by radiotelegraph or other signaling system, or the word “mayday”, pronounced over a radiotelephone (9).
All these signals have one single meaning, known to sailors all over the world - "I'm in trouble and need help".
4. Smoke and color distress signals.
These include various smoke bombs and firecrackers, most often used at sea. Such bombs are triggered after the ignition cord is pulled out and burn, emitting orange smoke, from 1 minute (hand bomb) to 4 minutes (floating bomb).
The floating smoke bomb used in domestic fleets has a length of 253 mm, a diameter of 80 mm and a weight of 820 g. The estimated visibility range of a smoke signal lasting 3 minutes is one nautical mile. The checker is activated by pulling the ignition cord.
In addition to color-smoke signals, there are special dyes that, when dissolved in water, create a large, colorful spot that is noticeable from afar.
These include, for example, uranine, intended for use in the sea or in vast freshwater bodies. Upon contact with water, uranine spreads over the surface, forming a huge spot of intense green-emerald color (if it gets into cold water) or orange (if found in warm water).
The dye remains visible for about 4 - 6 hours in calm water and only 2 - 3 hours in rough water.
Pyrotechnic signaling devices
In Annex IV<Сигналы бедствия>COLREG-72 says:<... сигналы, используемые или выставляемые вместе, либо раздельно, указывают, что судно терпит бедствие и нуждается в помощи>. Such signals also include pyrotechnics - rockets, grenades, flares, smoke bombs, luminous and smoking buoys. Supervision of pyrotechnic signaling means is carried out by the USSR Register. Vessels are supplied with pyrotechnic signaling devices depending on the navigation areas. On oil tankers, flares are provided only for lifeboats.
Before launching rockets or using other pyrotechnic devices, you must read the launch instructions. The rockets are fired from special metal cups, which are installed on the railings of the navigation bridge. Rockets must be extinguished at a height of at least 50 m from the surface of the sea.
Pyrotechnics must be moisture-resistant in handling and storage and operate in any climatic conditions, retain their properties for at least 3 years. The marking is applied with indelible paint on the pyrotechnic product itself (with the exception of one-star rockets), on its packaging and includes the date of issue, service life, purpose and instructions for use.
Parachute distress signal flare - red. Take-off altitude is not less than 300 m, burning duration is not less than 40 s, descent speed is not more than 5 m/s.
The sound grenade rocket is designed to send a distress signal. Range. audibility of at least 5 miles.
Single-star red or green rockets are used in rescue operations; take-off height of at least 80 m; burning duration 6 s.
A flare is a plastic or cardboard sleeve in which a pyrotechnic composition and an incendiary device are located. While burning, it is held in the hands. Purpose of the flare: red - to give a distress signal, burning duration 60 s; white - for attention, burning duration 20 s.
The smoke bomb is intended for lifeboats, it releases well visible smoke orange in color and serves to give a distress signal during daylight hours. After the bomb is activated, it is thrown overboard, where it should produce smoke for 3 minutes, visible for at least 3 miles.
For storing pyrotechnics, special waterproof metal cabinets are provided, built into the wheelhouse, or metal boxes mounted on the bridge deck. Inside, the boxes are divided into sections and lined with felt. If necessary, the rockets in sections are wedged.
Pyrotechnics for boats must be placed in special containers and stored in boats. While the vessel is at sea, access to pyrotechnics must be locked. One key is located in the chart room in a visible place with markings<Пиротехника>, the second is kept by the chief mate in the cabin. Flare guns are stored by the captain, and pyrotechnic cartridges are stored similarly to rockets.
Everyone on the ship needs to know the rules for handling pyrotechnics, for which training should be conducted with the entire crew.
When handling rockets, shocks and impacts are not allowed. If the rocket does not fire during launch, it should be immediately thrown overboard. It is prohibited to disassemble rockets. When starting, make sure that
There were no people nearby. Before launching missiles using a line-throwing installation, you should carefully study the instructions for its use.
Luminous and light-emitting buoys are attached to lifebuoys, which are located on the wings of the navigation bridge or near it for quickly throwing them overboard in the event of a person falling into the water. The buoy must provide a burning duration of at least 45 minutes. On oil tankers they operate from electric batteries. Smoke bombs operate automatically and produce orange smoke for 15 minutes with visibility of at least 1 mile in daylight. Self-igniting lights and smoke bombs must be designed in such a way as to prevent damage when dropped from a height of at least 25 m. The maximum service life of luminous and LED buoys on ships, taking into account their storage in a warehouse, should not exceed 10 years.
All pyrotechnics that have expired must be replaced.
It must be remembered that pyrotechnics are classified as fire-hazardous and explosive means, and when handling them, safety regulations must be strictly observed;
The entire ship's crew is required to study and know the instructions for handling pyrotechnics;
The results of testing the knowledge of the ship's crew in the use of pyrotechnics are documented in the protocol of the ship's qualification commission;
When firing missiles, there should be no people nearby and it is prohibited to direct their flight towards ships, structures, buildings, crowds of people, etc.;
Launching sound rockets from hands is prohibited;
A line-throwing missile is launched only with a line attached to it;
Smoking and the use of fire near pyrotechnics or when using them are strictly prohibited;
During the repair period, all pyrotechnics must be removed from the vessel and stored in a warehouse.
The detection range of a single human figure, as well as a small group of people, when observed in the daytime from an airplane flying at an altitude of 200 m, is: in summer - 1 - 1.5 km, in winter - 1.6 - 1.8 km. To increase the effectiveness of visual search, victims need to use additional technical means, which first include signal light-smoke-sound pyrotechnics of varying power and purpose (parachute flares, flares, mortar cartridges, PSND, flares, smoke bombs, etc.).
There aren't many emergency kits that don't include one or more flares. There are a huge number of types of signal, lighting and other flares (single- and multi-star, burgundy, snow-white, greenish, etc.) created for emergency and other signaling, lighting, and other highly specialized purposes.
! A distress signal is usually considered to be one or several bright burgundy or crimson stars, released one by one at short intervals using a flare gun, or the long reddish light of a gliding parachute rocket (Fig. 10).
The lights of all other missiles, fired in series of three, with short intervals between shots, can be interpreted as a distress signal.
Small flare has a diameter of 32 mm, length 230 mm, weight 190 g. The height of the sprocket is 150 m, the burning time is 6 - 12 s.
Parachute distress rocket(RPSP‑40, PRB‑40, RB‑40Sh) with a diameter of 44 mm, a length of 212 mm, a weight of 390 g, it is distinguished by a richer and longer glow of the signal sprocket and a higher height of its rise (up to 300 m). The color of the star is only reddish. The duration of the light signal can be 30 seconds or more. The shining power reaches 40 thousand candles. Under suitable weather conditions, the light signal of a large parachute rocket can be seen 25 - 30 km from the launch site at night and several km during the day (Fig. 11).
Flares of colored lights They have a similar appearance and size to a parachute, but an even wider color spectrum: one- and two-star signals of reddish, snow-white, greenish and yellowish lights. Duration of glow - 5 - 40 s. There is also a special sonic rocket, exploding at an altitude of 300 m with a sonorous sound similar to a cannon shot (Figure 12).
Combined flare, similar to theirs on the outside, but slightly larger in size (diameter 41 mm, length 255 mm, weight 450 g), gives a light and sound signal at an altitude of 200 m: 5 burgundy lights, burning for 5 s, and a howling sound lasting 8 s.
I will give an excerpt from the annotation on the use of signal parachute flares:
1. Take the rocket to left hand so that your fingers tightly clasp the iron sleeve of the trigger tube, and your palm does not cover the cap.
2. Unscrew the cap with your right hand, carefully release the cord with the ring, and take the ring in your right hand.
3. Give the rocket the required direction: keep flares at an angle of 50 - 60°, signal flares - at an angle of 70 - 90°. IN winter time It is recommended to increase the firing angle of the flares.
4. Produce right hand along the axis of the rocket, a sharp jerk of the exhaust cord towards itself (Fig. 13).
5. If there is no longer a need to use the rocket, then place the cord with the ring inside the rocket and screw on the cap.
The disadvantages of missiles include their significant size and weight.
On at the moment instead of parachute rockets, small ones are sometimes used mortar cartridges, launched using special mechanism, slightly larger in size than a fountain pen and, by the way, shaped like a fountain pen. When fired, the mortar, exploding at a height of 50 - 80 m, forms a colorful star that glows in the sky for approximately 5 seconds and can be seen at a distance of up to 7 - 10 km (Fig. 14).
The next type of mortars used in Russian army kits is shown in rice. 15.
In hunting stores you can currently find a civilian version of mortars called “Hunter’s Pyrotechnic Signal.” The kit includes a starting device and cartridges of reddish, yellowish and greenish lights (Fig. 16).
To bring a “fountain pen” into a combat platoon you need; screw the mortar onto the nozzle, having previously removed the safety cap from it, cock the mainspring, pressing the shutter button all the way and fixing it in a special cutout on the body. Now, to fire a shot, it’s enough to point the “fountain pen” at the sky at an angle of 80 - 90° and push the shutter button out of the groove with your huge finger.
Tourists, climbers and other amateur travelers in most cases take flare gun cartridges with them on a hike as an emergency signal device. True, they abandoned the rocket launcher itself due to its extra size and weight and are making homemade short-barreled rocket launchers from duralumin alloy, the weight of which does not exceed 50 g. Drawings of such rocket launchers can be found in special tourist literature.
From time to time, hunting stores sell special signal cartridges that can be fired from a regular hunting rifle. There are also different signal pistol and rifle tracer cartridges. They are all designed to give an emergency signal from a combat and hunting rifled weapon.
In the near future, a gas gun became widespread, which, in addition to the well-known tear and noise cartridges, is also capable of firing light-signal charges. You just need to make sure that the equipped clip contains at least several similar cartridges. Since it is difficult for the rescuers leading the search to say about the tear-filled interior. Maybe just cry enough about the signal charges forgotten in the nightstand at home.
! It should be taken into account that the light power of similar auxiliary ammunition, the height of the charge ejection and the burning time of the signal star are much lower than those of parachute flares. Therefore, it is better to have more of them and shoot only when there is a possibility that they will be seen.
Signal cartridges for night and day use(PSND), having a cylindrical body 172 mm long, 35 mm in diameter and weighing 190 g (Fig. 17), enjoy well-deserved recognition among travelers. Their operating principle is the same as that of missiles. The cartridge is activated by pulling the ignition cord. Just need to keep in mind: placing the launch cord in the signal cartridge back to the rocket! In other words, the signal is triggered in the same direction as the cord is pulled! If you forget about this and pull the cord not away from yourself, but out of rocket habit - towards yourself, you can seriously burn your face (Fig. 18)!
! The starting cord of the PSND is located in the same place where the signal nozzle looks!
The detection limit of the PSND night signal (bright orange or crimson flame) is 15 - 20 km during the dark hours of the day, if monitored from an airplane hovering at an altitude of 500 m. The daytime signal (crimson smoke) from the same height can be seen at a distance up to 5 - 8 km. When observing from the bridge of a ship, the detection limit of night and day signals is reduced by 20 - 30%. The best way to read a daytime smoke signal is against the backdrop of snow, ice, and water, but in the sands of the desert or in dense forests you may not be able to see it within 3 hundred meters. The effect of the signal cartridge is short-term - less than 10 - 20 s. In order not to confuse the sides of the signal cartridge in the dark, you need to keep in mind that the cover of the “day” signal is flat and even, and the “night” one has a recess.
In addition, there are special flares, torches, candles, smoke bombs and similar pyrotechnic means that can burn longer, sometimes up to 10 minutes or more. They are usually used for emergency search alarms in transport, environmental and other departments.
Reddish fire flare designed to provide a distress signal. Its length is 225 mm, diameter is 37 mm, weight is about 250 g. The burning time of the light signal is 60 s, the luminous intensity is 10 thousand candles. (Fig. 19).
Ground signal cartridge has twice smallest sizes and weight and, accordingly, the shortest duration and brightness of the light signal. All flares are activated by pulling the trigger cord.
I'll mention torch-candle, used in railway transport to give an emergency signal to a train approaching the scene of an accident. More precisely, once used, but now being replaced everywhere by more modern radio engineering means of emergency communication. A torch-candle is the same false fire, which for convenience has two retractable wire handles. They allow you to keep your hand at a safe distance from the open flame and facilitate complete combustion of the flare (Fig. 20).
When it is necessary to give a signal, the handles, pressed to the body of the torch-candle by 2 cardboard rims, are extended to their full length, the upper, protective cap is removed and inside strikes on the protruding ignition fuse. If the cap is missing or wet, the torch-candle can be lit using the side wall matchbox either from the flame of a match or lighter. The candle torch burns for 10 minutes (which distinguishes it from other false flares) with a bright reddish pulsating flame, with a stronger flash observed in the first seconds of combustion.
Given the ability to choose, it is better to choose torch-candles that are not afraid of water. There are even those that can burn while being one hundred percent immersed in water.
Due to its long life, the flare can be used to make fires in bad weather.
A few words should be said about the various items that appear on mass sale and cannot be listed by name. Chinese and similar ones fireworks (Fig. 21). As signaling devices, all these rockets, firecrackers, “bugs”, “butterflies”, “planes”, lights, sparklers and similar firecrackers are not very reliable. First, because they are poorly made and not designed for operation in difficult meteorological conditions. Hence the frequent misfires, incomplete combustion of light charges, and the inability to calculate the flight path of the signal star.
Such primitive pyrotechnics are very difficult to transport and use in real emergency conditions. But it may still be possible if nothing more reliable is at hand. It’s better to be able to give at least some signal than none at all! Moreover, unlike all other pyrotechnic means, ceremonial fireworks have two irrefutable advantages - low cost and accessibility. And no matter how you dissuade possible travelers from purchasing them, they still may not listen to good advice.
When choosing similar improvised signal means, you should prefer pyrotechnics made at Russian defense factories (they are more similar to real signal flares and flares), or pyrotechnics from industrially developed countries. Such fireworks are more reliable and harmless in use than those collected in semi-handicraft workshops in developing countries. It is better to choose not “paper” cases, but those made at least from thick compressed cardboard with metal reinforcing rings. The housings must have the greatest hardness and density.
! And most importantly: of all the rockets, “sparklers” and similar ceremonial pyrotechnic products created for fireworks, only those that have a signal in ORANGE-burgundy colors can be used as emergency signaling devices! Reddish color is the accepted color of disaster! All the rest, of course, can also attract attention and can be interpreted as an ordinary fireworks display.
All of the listed holiday signaling devices should be tested in action before you take them with you into the forest: shoot and see how high the light star rises, where it flies, how long it burns, how much it is affected by bad weather and strong winds, etc. p. If the light signals are not bright enough and quickly burn out, then it is better to launch rockets, replacing quality with quantity, “bush”, in other words, several and at once or one after another, with small intervals so that the next one has time to flare up before the previous one goes out.
! Such signal consumer goods must be handled even more carefully than “combat missiles.” It is necessary to carefully study the instructions for use and carry out several “practice” shootings.
You need to keep in mind that all parachute flares, PSND and some other pyrotechnic signaling devices are structurally prepared for firing, and therefore they should be handled like a loaded weapon, with extreme caution! If a rocket misfires, you need to hold it in the firing position for more than 30 seconds, without pointing it at people! All instructions and annotations instruct you to throw away unfired rockets and categorically prohibit repairing pyrotechnics that have not worked. Likewise, they warn against using fireworks that have expired (usually 3 to 4 years).
Approaching a rocket while a fire is burning under it is categorically unacceptable!
Right until the fire completely burns out and the rocket body cools down!
The detection range of pyrotechnic distress signals in almost everything (from time to time to a decisive extent!) depends on the location of their origin. Even the most powerful rocket can be launched in such a place and at such a time that no one will ever see it.
First you need to take into account the time of day and weather conditions. A colorful star in the sky during the day is virtually invisible, while at night it attracts attention from many kilometers away. Therefore, during daylight hours it is better to use smoke signals, saving the rocket for darkness. In the same way, a rocket launched if a cloud passes over your head can disappear without any usefulness. Therefore, if possible, delay the signal for a few seconds, wait for the clouds to pass, or try to get into a part of the sky free from clouds or fog.
To work with flares and smoke bombs, you should choose elevated points of the relief. With all this, you need to try to place it on the leeward side, where the smoke will be carried. open place- pond, glacier, clearing.
!When giving a signal, any pyrotechnic means should be held at arm's length, with the nozzle facing away from you. There should be no people standing on the leeward side, nor should there be flammable or fire-resistant objects. It is categorically unacceptable to direct missiles and ammunition towards rescue planes, helicopters, ships!
When using rockets, you should take into account the direction and strength of the wind, which can greatly blow away the parachute with the signal star blazing underneath it. If you want the signal to burn above your head, shoot slightly into the wind.
Another purely “rocket” mistake is to underestimate the force of its recoil. This is especially true for huge parachute rockets! If you do not hold the rocket casing firmly enough, it may jerk downward and slip out of your hands when fired. I was able to verify this at one point when giving a light (not an emergency) signal in the winter taiga. The mittens, frozen to the point of ice, did not allow us to squeeze our fingers with sufficient force, and for this reason the rocket fired immediately in two directions: with an asterisk - into the sky, with a cartridge case - into the ground. It was only by miracle that the light charge, which did not follow its own line of movement, did not burn my hair. But it could have been worse, even worse. For example, during a rock concert on Palace Square in St. Petersburg, a rocket suddenly fired en masse hit the temple and outright destroyed a spectator standing nearby. That’s why you should only handle the rocket with your bare hand, having previously wiped your palm and fingers dry.
And another very principled advice. Most pyrotechnics have a one-time effect, in other words, having given a signal once, it is impossible to repeat it. Therefore, you need to give a signal from a very close distance and only when you are sure that it will be seen. For example, when you see a rescue plane or ship or clearly hear the increasing noise of operating engines.
On the other hand, if you have a supply of disposable pyrotechnics, when a still invisible rescue plane or helicopter approaches, it is better not to save the rockets. Here stinginess can serve a bad purpose. The aircraft leading the search is not a city tram, which travels the same route several times a day. A search plane does not always return to a place it has already flown over. Therefore, it is better to give a distress signal (I repeat again: if you do not need pyrotechnics!) before it can be found visually. Point in the direction of the sound, calculating the direction of flight based on its increase or decrease as best you can. A rocket, having broken through low clouds, can be seen by pilots, while you will never see this plane.
If there is no longer a need to send a signal, the ignition cord with the ring must be carefully placed in the socket created for the rocket and the protective cap must be screwed on.
While driving, signaling devices must be stored in a place protected from impacts and precipitation and at the same time accessible to everyone. And during rest stops, keep away from fire. Many pyrotechnics are afraid of heat, intense friction and impacts, from which they can fail or even explode!
Apart from their direct purpose, almost all pyrotechnic signaling devices can be successfully used to scare away carnivorous animals - polar and brown bears, wolves, jackals, etc.
Although a stretch, it can be considered a simple pyrotechnic signaling device aerosol cans. Anything - from hairspray and other cosmetics to repellents. A jet of aerosol released from a can, if passed through the flame of a match or lighter, flares up with a striking, several 10 cm long, torch, visible from the air for several kilometers. The aerosol should be released in small, less than 1 - 2 s, presses with 2 - 5 second pauses.
!If the aerosol jet burns for a longer period of time, the can may explode in your hands!
When you need to send a long signal, you should dig the canister into the ground, place a thin stone on the start button or pull it back with an elastic band running through the bottom, place a small torch in the path of the jet and step back a few meters to the side.
And if you remember childhood pranks, you can make various “bombs”, firecrackers, “sparklers”, etc. from sulfur match heads, magnesium, cerium, etc. homemade, unknown characteristics, but still pyrotechnic light and sound signaling devices. Their production and use are associated with a certain risk, so I am not providing a specific recipe here. Anyone who was interested in similar “chemistry” before, I think, will be able to use children’s abilities not for pleasure, but for business.
Maritime international distress signals (Fig. 22):
· releasing puffs of orange smoke (1);
· flame on a ship (for example, from a flaming tar barrel) (2);
· rockets or grenades that emit reddish stars, released one by one at short intervals (3);
· reddish parachute flare or reddish flare (4);
· flag signal NC (NC) according to the International Code of Signals (5);
· a signal consisting of a square flag with a ball above or below it (6);
· leisurely, repeated raising and lowering of arms extended to the sides (7);
· cannon shots, or explosions produced at intervals of about one minute, or a continuous sound produced by any apparatus for sending fog signals (8);
· an SOS distress signal transmitted by radiotelegraph or other signaling system, or the word "mayday" spoken by radiotelephone (9).
All these signals have one single meaning, known to sailors all over the world - “I am in distress, I need help.”
Smoke and color distress signals.
These include (not counting the daytime PSND signal) various smoke bombs and firecrackers, in most cases used at sea. Such bombs are triggered after the ignition cord is pulled out and blaze, emitting orange smoke, from 1 minute (hand bomb) to 4 minutes (floating bomb).
Applicable on Russian fleets the floating smoke bomb has a length of 253 mm, a diameter of 80 mm and a weight of 820 g. The estimated visibility range of a smoke signal lasting 3 minutes is one nautical mile. The checker is activated by pulling the ignition cord (Fig. 23).
There are other varieties smoke bombs. Right up to those that one person simply cannot cope with. For example, a large smoke signal bomb has a length of 74 cm, a diameter of 21 cm and a weight of 32 kg! This huge “smoke” burns for 8 minutes, and its signal is visible 20 km away (Fig. 24)!
In addition to color-smoke signals, there are special dyes that, when dissolved in water, create a huge, colorful spot that is noticeable from afar.
These include, for example, uranine, created for use in the sea or in wide freshwater bodies of water. Upon contact with water, uranine spreads over the surface, forming a huge spot of rich green-emerald color (if it gets into cool water) or orange color (if it gets into warm water). The dye remains noticeable for about 4 - 6 hours in calm water and only 2 - 3 hours in rough water (Fig. 25).
To some extent, various orange panels, awnings of life rafts and boats, clothing and tents in bright burgundy colors can serve as color distress signals.
To talk about the next type of signaling means, I will ask the reader to remember his childhood. Who among you, during those happy times, did not have fun throwing a flashy sun rabbit at the walls with a pocket mirror? It was this “rabbit” that the specialists put at the service of the victims of disaster, creating several signal mirrors of different designs.
