103051-1926-Supplementary-Notices-to-Mariners — Page 3

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In approaching by night any British port in the United Kingdom or abroad, serious delay and risk will be avoided if four efficient all round lanterns, two red and two white, are kept available for use.

(7) By day the distinguishing flag of the Examination Steamer will be a special flag (white and red horizontal surrounded by a blue border).

Also, three red balls vertically disposed if entrance is prohibited.

Usually the Examination Steamers will fly the Blue Ensign, but in certain circum- stances they may fly the White Ensign.

By night the steamer will carry :—--

(a) Three red lights vertically disposed if entrance is prohibited.

(b) Three white lights vertically disposed if entrance is permitted.

The above lights will be carried in addition to the ordinary navigation lights, and will show an unbroken light around the horizon.

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(8) 'Masters are warned that, when approaching a British port where the Examina- tion Service is in force, they must have the signal letters of their vessel ready to hoist immediately the Examination Steamer makes the signal: What ship is that?

(9) Masters are warned that, before attempting to enter any port when the Examina- tion Service is in force, they must in their own interests strictly obey all instructions given to them by the Examination Steamer.

Whilst at anchor in the Examination Anchorage, Masters are warned that it is forbidden, except for the purpose of avoiding accident, to do any of the following things, without permission from the Examining Officer:-

To lower any boat.

To communicate with the shore or with other ships.

To move the ship.

To work cables.

To allow any person or thing to leave the ship.

(10) In ease of fog, Masters are enjoined to use the utmost care, and the port should be approached with caution.

1) When the Examination Service is in force merchant vessels when approaching ports are especially cautioned against making use of private signals of any description, either by day or night; the use of them will render a vessel liable to be fired on.

(12) The pilots attached to the ports will be acquainted with the regulations to be followed.

PART III.

Mine-Sweeping Operations.

H.M. Vessels engaged in mine-sweeping operations or exercises are hampered to a considerable extent in their manoeuvring powers.

With a view to indicating the nature of the work on which they are engaged, these vessels will show the signals hereinafter mentioned. For the public safety all other vessels, whether steamers or sailing craft, should endeavour to keep out of the way of vessels flying these signals and not approach them inside the distances mentioned herein, specially remembering that it is dangerous to pass between the vessels of a pair or group sweeping together.