What does five or more short, rapid blasts signify?

Five or more short, rapid blasts of a horn or whistle is a standard signal indicating danger or a disagreement about intentions on the water. This sound is used to alert other boaters that there may be a hazardous situation, such as a boat approaching another vessel too closely or not following navigation rules properly. It serves as a means of communication to ensure safety on the water, promoting awareness among all boaters regarding potential threats to navigation and safety.

Understanding this signal is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear communication on the water to prevent accidents and ensure that all vessels are aware of each other's actions. Other signals like warnings of impending collisions, requests to reduce speed, or entering no-wake zones have specific sound patterns that differ from the five short blasts, highlighting the unique importance of this particular signal in maritime safety.