SIGNALING MIRROR

The emergency signaling mirror is approximately 3 by 5 inches and consists of an aluminized reflecting glass mirror, a back cover glass, and a sighting device. It is used by personnel in rafts or on land to attract the attention of passing aircraft or ships by reflection, either in sunlight or in hazy weather. The reflections of this shatterproof mirror can be seen at a distance 3 to 5 times as great as those from which a raft can be sighted at sea. On a clear sunny day, the mirror

Figure 5-2.-Operation of the signaling mirror.

reflects the equivalent of 8 million candlepower. Flashes from the mirror have been seen from a distance of 40 miles. A smaller mirror, measuring 2 by 3 inches, is also used in some kits.

Figure 5-2 shows the operation of the signaling mirror. Past experience indicates that personnel may have difficulty using the mirror in a bobbing raft at sea. Signaling practice with the mirror should be encouraged as part of the training program for flight crews. Such practice reduces the difficulty in case of emergencies. Before using the mirror, read the instructions printed on its back.

MK 79, MOD 0 ILLUMINATION SIGNAL KIT

The Mk 79 signal kit is supplied with one pencil-type launcher (Mk 31), seven Mk 80 screwin cartridges, and a bandolier for storing the flares until use. Protective caps should be used over the primers of the cartridges when not using the bandolier.

Figure 5-3.-Mk 79 Mod 0 illumination signal kit.

Each cartridge flare has a minimum duration of 4 1/2 seconds and can be launched up to 250 feet. When the launcher is stored in the survival vest, it should be in the COCKED position and empty (fig. 5-3). Refer to NAVAIR 11-15-7 for proper handling and storage of the _{signal kit.}

MK 13, MOD 0 SIGNAL FLARE

The Mk 13, Mod 0 signal flare is intended to attract the attention of SAR aircraft and to give them drift direction. To avoid being burned by sparks, the ignited Mk 13, Mod 0 signal must be held at arms length and no more than shoulder high. If the Mk 13, Mod 0 signal is being used at sea, hold it over the side of the life raft to prevent damage to the life raft from hot residue. The Mk 13, Mod 0 signal may be put out by dousing in water or snuffing in sand. Refer to NAVAIR 11-15-7 for precautions, handling, and storage procedures.

The Mk 13, Mod 0 consists of a metal cylinder closed at each end. There is a tear friction tape igniter on a clip at each end. One end contains a red flare for nighttime use; the opposite end houses an orange smoke signal for daytime use. Each end of the signal burns approximately 20 seconds. The nighttime end of the flare has protrusions that you can feel in the dark. On the outside of the Mk 13, Mod 0 flare are operating instructions and a lot number (fig. 5-4). The lot number should be checked each time the flare is inspected to ensure that the flare is still serviceable. A list of lot numbers that are not serviceable can be found in current aircrew

Figure 5-4.-Mk 13 Mod 0 marine smoke and illumination signal.

equipment bulletins. Any flares manufactured before 1960 should also be removed from service.