Safety Whistle vs Signaling Mirror Question

[Zen1300]

I'd rather carry a whistle and never use it, than need it and not have it.

(those of you that are CHL holders, yes I replaced gun for whistle in the above)

 

[Aerosynth]

I also have the DAN Surface Signal Kit. It contains everything all in a pocket on the rolled SMB, and takes up very little room when attached to my BC. I did remove the whistle from inside the SMB pocket, and affixed it to my LP PI hose with a zip tie. I'm not unhappy with the setup.

 

[likestodive]

I've been involved in a search in rough seas for a lost diver with a whistle. We could hear the whistle but it was almost impossible to tell where it was coming from. All we could tell was that they had to be someplace near - which was better than nothing but not the best. In high winds, many inflatable signaling devices blow over. I've seen that first hand on a bad day. A friend gave me an idea that I have used very successfully. A collapsable shock corded tent pole with a LARGE orange flag affixed to it. It is probably 8 feet long when extended and can be seen from a long ways away when waved.

A yellow fin waved above your head will also work very well.

I'll put a mirror in my BC too. Better safe than sorry. If you dive long enough in the 'right' (or wrong - depending on your view) conditions you will eventually find yourself floating without a boat nearby. I want to be able to do all I can to help them find me quickly.