10 Ways to Signal SOS in Morse Code and Other Methods

The SOS signal was first introduced in Germany on April 1, 1905, and it is commonly referred to as the international Morse code distress signal. The SOS distress signal is a continuous sequence of three dots, three dashes, and three dots, without letter spacing (· · · – – – · · ·). The signal is still internationally recognized and, over the past century, has saved thousands of lives.

It’s important to note that there are different variations of Morse code, including American Morse code, which may slightly differ in some sequences. However, the international radio telegraphic convention has ensured that the classic SOS Morse code remains universally understood across countries and situations.

Before diving into the various ways to signal SOS, it’s important to be fully prepared for any wilderness emergency. Knowing how to properly communicate distress signals is just one part of survival.

To truly equip yourself for the unexpected, this handbook offers comprehensive guidance on thriving in the wild. From shelter building to food sourcing, and yes, even signaling for help, this guide covers the essential skills you need to survive and thrive in the harshest conditions.

Now, let’s explore some crucial methods to signal SOS in case of an emergency:

Signal SOS in Morse Code using a Mirror

You can signal SOS using a mirror or any material that reflects sunlight. Aimed toward an airplane, a ship, or any rescue vehicle will make you more visible. By reflecting the light three short times, three long times, and three short times, you will communicate that you are in distress. This method follows the Morse code sequence of three dots, three dashes, and three dots, which is vital for recognition by rescuers.

Back in the late 1980s, Joel Slaughter, a 48-year-old oral surgeon, was in the middle of a two-week raft trip down the Colorado River in Arizona when his raft got caught in a wave. In the confusion, the rope wrapped around his leg and dragged him across the rocks. Fortunately, his 24-year-old son rushed to him, and at the last moment, cut the rope.

But Joel was left with a fractured knee, pelvis, and a dislocated hip. He needed medical treatment fast. Fortunately, another member of the team knew how to signal SOS using a mirror. The pilot of a jet airliner flying 35,000 feet overhead saw the glint of the rafter’s mirror and realized someone was in trouble below.

The plane quickly called for help, and soon a rescue helicopter arrived to lift the injured Joel to safety. This real-life story demonstrates how visual distress signals can save lives, much like how semaphore flags or signal flares are used in maritime and aviation contexts.  [Associated Press].

There are similar real stories of people lost on islands who signaled SOS with a mirror and saved their lives.

Signal SOS Using a Whistle

The international radiotelegraph convention includes Morse code sequences for distress signals in various formats. The international radio telegraphic convention covers these, ensuring universal recognition of signals like SOS. To signal SOS with a whistle, blow three short bursts. Two bursts indicate “Come here,” and one burst can mean “Where are you?” or a call-back signal, useful in identifying codes during an emergency.[Outdoorlife]

Signal SOS Using Fire

specially at night, you can signal SOS using fire. Build three fires in a triangle or in a straight line, with about 100 feet between them. This method utilizes the visual and audio distress signals that have been part of maritime national radio regulations for years.

Three fires have long been an internationally recognized distress signal. At daytime, you can signal SOS using smoke. However, not all fires produce enough smoke to be visible from afar.

To maximize smoke output, throw green wood and leaves into the fire. The intervals of three dots, three dashes, and three dots can be mimicked by the pattern of smoke bursts.

Signal SOS Using Sand or Stones

If you’re on a beach or sandy area, you can carve out the SOS signal in the sand. It’s a straightforward method, as sand is easy to shape. Scrape the sand to a depth of about 4 inches (10 cm) to ensure the markings remain visible for a longer period.

You can also use stones to form the SOS signal. A popular approach is to arrange the stones in a triangle, emulating the Morse code sequence of three dots, three dashes, and three dots. Remember, this is just one method discussed in the national radio regulations for visual distress signaling.

Signal SOS in Morse Code Using a Flashlight or Mobile Phone

If you have a flashlight or mobile phone, signaling SOS in Morse code is straightforward. Flash three short bursts, three long bursts, and three short bursts toward a target, such as a ship or a passing aircraft.

If you’re using a mobile phone, it works similarly, assuming you have no cell signal for calls. This is a common technique for Morse code sequences included in distress signals. SOS has been used in emergencies for decades and continues to be an essential tool for survival.

Signal SOS Using a Torch

If you don’t have a flashlight but can build a fire, you can use a torch to signal SOS at night. Shield the light of the torch to direct it toward the rescue vehicle. Moving the object that covers the light in a rhythmic pattern can effectively communicate the SOS sequence, similar to signal flares or semaphore flags used for signaling from ships.

Signal SOS with Blue and Red Flashing Lights

Flashing blue and red lights are often associated with emergency situations and can signal an accident or someone in need of rescue. If you don’t have the means to build a fire, you can wave a blue-red flag made from your clothes. This combination of colors is highly visible, even from high altitudes. It’s an effective visual distress signal, similar to signal flares used in rescue operations.

Signal SOS Using Parts of Your Body

If you don’t have any signaling tools, use your body to signal SOS. Wave your arms and hands sideways and downward to attract attention. If the rescue vehicle is close, stand with your hands and arms raised. Ensure you’re in a wide open space.

In extreme cases, such as the Vietnam War, prisoners were able to signal SOS through blinking their eyes. Jeremiah Denton Jr. famously blinked his eyes to signal SOS, sending Morse code to his captors without alerting them to his actions.

Signal SOS Using Orange Smoke

On some ships, orange smoke is released from the stack if the ship is in trouble. Special fuel is burned to produce the orange color, which can easily be seen on the horizon. You can also learn how to make a color smoke bomb or simply purchase an orange smoke flare, which is visible in every season and environment. This method is highly effective as a visual and audio distress signal.

Signal SOS in Morse Code by Tapping

In confined spaces, you can tap the SOS Morse code on any surface—whether it’s a wall, the inside of a car trunk, or even underground. Tapping at regular intervals, three short taps followed by three long ones, and then three short taps again, increases your chances of being found by rescuers. This method is discussed in Article XVI of the National Radio Regulations, which explains how Morse code should be transmitted for distress signaling.

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