Final answer:
The law specifies that distress signals are to be used only when there is immediate or potential danger to persons onboard. This is to prevent misuse and, as opposed to the myth that a drowning person can call out for help, real situations may prevent such signals. Distress signals are for emergencies and should be clearly understood as such.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement regarding the use of distress signals highlights a common misconception related to emergency situations at sea. To clarify, the law dictates that distress signals should only be used when there is immediate or potential danger to the lives of those onboard a vessel. This legal provision is intended to prevent any misuse of distress signals, which could lead to confusion and unnecessary deployment of rescue resources. It is crucial to understand that activating a distress signal is a serious matter and should only be done in true emergencies.
Contrasting this to a common myth about drowning, people often believe that a drowning person is capable of calling out for help and waving their arms. However, this is not usually the case; drowning individuals frequently struggle silently and may not be able to attract attention through vocal cries or dramatic gestures. This myth implies that one would be able to use a distress signal (like shouting or arm waving) when drowning, but in reality, they may not be physically able to do so.
In literature, such as the quoted text from 'The Open Boat,' the characters discuss the absence of a life-boat, suggesting that no distress signal had been received or noted by others, emphasizing the importance of these signals being recognizable and reserved for true distress situations.