Blue Light; special?

[HukilauMike]

So I'm anchored in the harbor on July 3, enjoying a nice picnic and swim with the Admiral and the crew when I notice that the Coast Guard is in the channel. They are slowly going up and down the channel, rafting up to some of the boats as they move in or out of the harbor. I can pick out a few words as they use their loudspeaker to hail the passing craft. At one point, I hear the Coasties say "We've got the blue light on....," and I notice that indeed, they have a flashing blue light (like a police light) going on top of the pilot house. Anybody know what that means? I assume they were out there on the holiday weekend to show the flag and provide security/terrorist deterrence. But I am curious if I am supposed to do something (avoid them, slow down, stop?) if I see the Blue Light on a Coast Guard vessel.

 

[Calif. Ted]

All I can find is as follows:

33 CFR 88: ANNEX V - PILOT RULES§ 88.11 Law enforcement vessels (a) Law enforcement vessels may display a flashing blue light when engaged in direct law enforcement or public safety activities. This light must be located so that it does not interfere with the visibility of the vessel's navigation lights.(b) The blue light described in this section may be displayed by law enforcement vessels of the United States and the States and their political subdivisions.Which I've always interpreted to mean that you should give them right of way and stay clear.

 

[mlb7731]

blue light special

When you see a blue light on a CG vessel, slow down and they will either come along side or pass you by. Just act like a police car was behind you.

 

[sailormannj]

From an Auxiliarist

As an active auxiliarist, the Auxiliary will use the blue light when engaged in events like a fireworks display, regattas, clear channel patrols etc. The Auxiliary's primary goal is boating safety and now after 9/11 also showing presence in waterways for Homeland Security.

 

[Calif. Ted]

So in this case it appears to me they were

probably trying to maintain a clear channel ?

 

[HukilauMike]

This case

They weren't maintaining a clear channel in this case. they were stopping boats as they were trying to pass through the channel. Maybe they were looking for drunks or terrorists.