How to Learn Signal Flags

Letter flags use two flags in different positions to represent the alphabet.

The term "signal flags" can refer to international letter flags, alphanumeric flags or special flags and pennants. These flags are used to communicate between ships during periods when radio silence is necessary. Each flag has a unique meaning that is recognized internationally, but individual organizations may have their own coded meanings to mask their messages. Flag bags, including semaphore bags, can be purchased online to practice; learning the meanings for each flag and pose is essentially rote memorization that can be done using the internet or reference books.

Things You'll Need

• Semaphore flags

Instructions

1. Visit the US Navy website to study the different flags, names and meanings. International meanings explain how people will most likely interpret a given signal flag.

2. Study the semaphore flag alphabet. Two flags are placed in different positions relative to each other in order to spell out words.

3. Practice the alphabet using a pair of semaphore flags. Physical practice makes it much easier to memorize; the process is more complex than simply matching meanings to symbols.

Tips & Warnings

• Video yourself going through the semaphore alphabet to assure your flags are in the correct positions.

• Practice in front of a mirror with caution; the flags will appear backwards and may be confusing.

References

• US Navy: Signal Flags
• Australian Director of National Parks: Semaphore Flag Signalling System