MESSAGE BLANKS

A written message is another means of passing information within the damage control organization. To standardize this method of communication, preprinted message blanks are used (fig. 2-10). To write out a message word for word takes unnecessary time. Therefore, you should use the standard abbreviations for damage control fittings that are listed in figure 2-11. By using these abbreviations and the standard symbology shown

Figure 2-11.-Standard abbreviations for damage control fittings.

in figure 2-12, you can write a message in a minimum amount of time.

MESSENGER

The messenger's responsibility is to relay orders and information. These messages will normally be relayed between the scene, the repair locker, and, if in port, the quarterdeck. Written messages are always more reliable than oral messages. However, the messenger should be trained to relay oral messages without errors.

Figure 2-12.-Navy standard damage control symbology. 2-22

MAINTAINING COMMUNICATIONS alternative methods when necessary. Damage control communications drills should be held frequently; some circuits should actually be should understand and be able to use all of the _{available methods of communication. This} includes the ability to switch from normal to _{If you are a member of a repair party, you} shorted without warning to test your ability to maintain communications during an emergency ^situation.

Figure 2-12.-Navy standard damage control symbology-Continued.

Figure 2-12.-Navy standard damage control symbology-Continued.

Figure 2-12.-Navy standard damage control symbology-Continued.

The succession of command for repair stations must be well established if you are to maintain communications control. The proper succession should be put into effect immediately if DCC is destroyed or otherwise put out of commission. The sequence of command for each ship is given in the ship's Repair Party Manual. Copies of the Repair Party Manual are located in DCC and each repair party locker.

Drills are useful in establishing the chain of succession. DCC may pretend to be out of

Figure 2-12.-Navy standard damage control symbology-Continued. 2-26

commission by not answering up. This will provide a test of the organization and the procedures of the repair party station designated to assume command. The repair party taking control should notify all other repair parties, the commanding officer, and main engine control that it has control. This procedure should be followed until all repair parties have succeeded to control and have exercised their control properly. DCC can always regain control by saying "Damage control central taking control," and receiving the proper acknowledgments.

This drill should emphasize the necessity for all repair parties to maintain a record of all information and orders issued by DCC. When a repair party succeeds to damage control central, it must know what casualties the other stations are handling.

Communication difficulties become apparent when there are numerous hits or other casualties throughout the ship. Under these conditions, all repair parties usually try to send information to DCC at the same time. The communication circuits can become overloaded and jammed unless proper control is maintained. A priority system for different types of messages should be established. The priority of messages should be understood by all repair party personnel. Messages containing vital information, and messages that require immediate action by some other damage control unit should be sent first. Then other important messages or reports should be sent. Routine or relatively unimportant messages should not be transmitted until the lines are free.