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Nearing a blind bend in a channel, what sound signal should you give?

One prolonged blast.

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  1. Five short blasts
  2. One prolonged blast ✔
  3. Two short blasts

Why: Inland Rule 34(e) says a vessel nearing a bend where other boats may be hidden sounds one prolonged blast. Any approaching vessel that hears it answers with a prolonged blast.

Huh, didn't know that: In fog, a power-driven vessel making way sounds one prolonged blast at intervals of no more than 2 minutes.

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What runs but never walks? A river.
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References

Answer: One prolonged blast. Inland Rule 34(e) says a vessel nearing a bend where other boats may be hidden sounds one prolonged blast. Any approaching vessel that hears it answers with a prolonged blast.

  1. 33 CFR 83.34 Maneuvering and warning signals, Inland Rule 34 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.34
    shall sound one prolonged blast. This signal shall be answered with a prolonged blast by any approaching vessel
    Checked 2026-10-08.
  2. 33 CFR 83.35 Sound signals in restricted visibility, Inland Rule 35 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.35
    A power-driven vessel making way through the water shall sound, at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, one prolonged blast.
    Checked 2026-10-08.

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Boating & WaterOn inland waters, what does one short blast mean when meeting or crossing another powerboat?Boating & WaterWhen meeting or crossing on inland waters, what do two short blasts mean?Boating & WaterWhat do five or more short, rapid blasts on a boat's horn mean?

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