Which statement is true about Red Over Red signals?

• A. Red Over Red indicates captain is dead or NUC
• B. Red Over Red indicates RAM working vessel
• C. Red Over Red indicates towing astern
• D. Red Over Red indicates mine clearance

Answer: (A)

Red Over Red signals indicate Not Under Command. When a vessel cannot maneuver as required by the collision regulations, it uses two red lights in a vertical line at night to show its status to other ships. The phrase that the captain is dead or the vessel is not under command captures why this signal would be used—if the master is incapacitated or the vessel can’t be steered or powered to comply with the rules, it must be indicated to others so they can take action to avoid a collision. This two-red-light pattern is distinct from other maneuver-limit signals, such as three red lights in a vertical line for RAM (Restricted in its ability to maneuver), or signals for towing or mine clearance, which have their own patterns.