EMERGENCY AND ADMINISTRATIVE SIGNALS The flags and pennants (figs. 4-14 and 4-15) represent only a few of the thousands of signals that can be transmitted by flag hoist. Since they may be frequently seen displayed aboard Navy ships or stations, it would be to your advantage to learn to identify them and understand their meaning. Your own personal safety may someday depend on recognizing a particular signal flag. Table 4-3 contains only those international signals most commonly used and having the same meaning as Navy signals. 4-20 Student Notes: INTERNATIONAL SIGNALS NAVY MEANINGS EMERGENCY/WARNING FLAGS CODE ALFA (International) I have a diver(s) down; keep well clear at slow speed. BRAVO I am taking in, discharging, or carrying dangerous materials. KILO Personnel working aloft. MIKE 1 This ship has medical guard duty. MIKE 2 This ship has dental guard duty. OSCAR Man overboard. FLAG FIVE Breakdown; the vessel is having engine or steering difficulty. ADMINISTRATIVE FLAGS HOTEL (International) This ship has a harbor pilot on board. INDIA Preparing to come alongside in-port or at anchor. JULIETT I have a semaphore message to transmit. PAPA General recall; all personnel return to the ship. QUEBEC Boat recall; all boats return to the ship. ROMEO In port; flown by ship having READY DUTY. At sea, flow by the ship PREPARING TO REPLENISH. SIERRA Holding flag hoist drill. FIRST SUBSTITUTE Indicates the absence of the flag officer or unit commander show personal flag or pennant is flying on the ship. SECOND SUBSTITUTE Indicates the absence of the chief of staff.. THIRD SUBSTITUTE Indicates the absence of the captain. If the captain is absent over 72 hours, it indicates the absence of the executive officer. Table 4-3.—Commonly Used International Signals