Boating License Practice Test 2025 - Free Boating Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Sounding the horn repeatedly is widely recognized as a signal for an emergency situation on a boat. This action serves as an immediate warning to others nearby that assistance may be needed or that there is a critical situation occurring. In many places, specific horn signals are defined by maritime law to convey various messages, and a continuous blast generally indicates an urgent need for help.

The other options do not convey an emergency. Displaying a green flag typically indicates a safe condition or a signal in some contexts, such as all-clear in racing. Flickering lights do not carry a standard meaning in boating and could result from malfunctions or other non-emergency situations. Keeping all lights off, on the other hand, could suggest an intention to avoid detection or a moored state, neither of which indicates an emergency. Understanding the significance of these signals is crucial for both safety and effective communication on the water.