What is the purpose of distress signaling devices and when would you deploy them?

• A. To attract attention during routine safety briefings.
• B. To signal other aircraft about turbulence.
• C. To communicate with rescue relays only.
• D. To attract attention and communicate distress to rescuers; deploy during overwater or other life-threatening situations as directed.

Answer: (D)

Distress signaling devices are used to attract attention and communicate distress to rescuers. They’re meant for situations where you’re in danger and ordinary communication isn’t sufficient—most notably during overwater flights or other life-threatening emergencies. Deploy them only as directed by flight crew procedures, so responders are alerted correctly and resources aren’t wasted or misdirected. The other uses aren’t appropriate: routine safety briefings aren’t emergencies, signaling turbulence isn’t what these devices are for, and relying only on rescue relays misses the crucial step of actively attracting rescuers to your location.