Manitoulin

The Semaphore flag signaling system is an alphabet signalling system based on the waving of a pair of hand-held flags in a particular pattern. The flags are usually square, red and yellow, divided diagonaly with the red portion in the upper hoist.

Semaphore is a visual signalling procedure that dates back, in its present form, to the 18th century. The two hand flags are red and yellow in colour, split diagonally, with the red side opposite the handle. Both flags are used in combination to form letters and numbers. Since the receiver must be able to clearly see the sender, this type of communication is used during daylight over short distances. Semaphore signalling allows for rapid transmission of characters between stations. Since there is always the possibility of someone intercepting an electronic transmission, the simplicity of using flags to communicate is very appealing.

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You can earn a level and communicators badge by doing the following:

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1. Send a semaphore message in clear
words at a speed of 25 characters per minute for two minutes making not more than 10 errors.

2. Receive a semaphore message in plain
language at a speed of 25 characters per minute for two minutes making not more than 10 errors.

3. Exam to be conducted by an examiner

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To help you practice, watch the instructional video below doing the movement with your arms. You can also use the supplied signal sheet to help you figure out the proper arm placement.