http://wap.news.bigpond.com/articles/Top...NSW_690068.html

I'm embarassed to admit that I've always wondered why the average Jane would need to know those signals for communicating with aircraft that seem to always be included in survival books. This article made the lightbulb turn on.

I'm thinking so too, Izzy. Flooding isn't much of an issue here, but I think I'm going to do the same thing.

I don't know this stuff. Can't seem to locate a webpage. A little help, if you would be so kind? Thanks.

DB

For the record, US civilian pilot training doesn't require pilots know these signals.

Civil Air Patrol might know them. (But I don't know if they do or not)

True, but the pilot should have a radio, and should be able to contact someone who knows the signal. The main point is making a signal and getting it noticed, nothing wrong with a giant "HELP" or "SOS" to get attention either, the international signals are simply more compact therefore less time, energy, and resource intensive.

Thanks! Now I have a question. The first link says K is "indicates direction to proceed." How does one indicate direction with K? The letter has four points. Is it the < on the right side of the letter? In other words, this is how one might use it:

[This is where I want you to go] K

Is this right?

If a pilot can't interpret ground-to-air signals one would hope that he or she would use the radio to contact someone who could.

Remember also that three of anything is a signal of distress. Three fires in a triangle is the classic. If you can make 'em smoky they're probably more visible in daylight, too.

You're right!!!

We have also started taking FRS radios with us when we go hiking/camping. One for each member. The rule is simple, when one or more leaves the camp (gathering firewood, etc) we all turn on our radios.

We used call signs (Wolf, Coyote, & Sandman) since that tripped my 9 year old nephew's "trigger". It also insured that he remembered to turn on his radio when called for.

Great idea about the call signs, Wildman. My kiddo would love that. We use radios the same way in Scouts too, but the younger kids don't use them - the leaders and older youth do. You just gave me an idea for camp activity this weekend.

Hathi out.

Absolutely right on all counts Chaos.