Signal flags and phonetic alphabet

Letter flags

• A Alfa

  I have a diver down; keep well clear at slow speed.

• B Bravo

  I am taking in, discharging or carrying dangerous goods.

• C Charlie

  Affirmative (“yes”).

• D Delta

  Keep clear of me; I am manoeuvring with difficulty.

• E Echo

  I am altering my course to starboard.

• F Foxtrot

  I am disabled; communicate with me.

• G Golf

  I require a pilot. (Fishing vessels near fishing grounds: I am hauling nets.)

• H Hotel

  I have a pilot on board.

• I India

  I am altering my course to port.

• J Juliett

  I am on fire and have dangerous cargo on board: keep well clear of me; or, I am leaking dangerous cargo.

• K Kilo

  I wish to communicate with you.

• L Lima

  You should stop your vessel instantly.

• M Mike

  My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water.

• N November

  Negative (“no”).

• O Oscar

  Man overboard.

• P Papa

  In harbour: all persons should report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea. At sea, fishing vessels: my nets have come fast upon an obstruction.

• Q Quebec

  My vessel is “healthy” and I request free pratique.

• R Romeo

  No single-flag meaning in the Code.

• S Sierra

  I am operating astern propulsion.

• T Tango

  Keep clear of me; I am engaged in pair trawling.

• U Uniform

  You are running into danger.

• V Victor

  I require assistance.

• W Whiskey

  I require medical assistance.

• X X-ray

  Stop carrying out your intentions and watch for my signals.

• Y Yankee

  I am dragging my anchor.

• Z Zulu

  I require a tug. (Fishing vessels near fishing grounds: I am shooting nets.)

Figures by radio