What does the fog signal of "long 2 short" signify?

The fog signal of "long 2 short" is used to signify a vessel that is restricted in its maneuverability. This means that the vessel may have limitations that prevent it from changing course or speed effectively, such as when it is towing another vessel or engaged in underwater operations. The "long 2 short" signal serves to alert other vessels in the vicinity of this limitation, enabling them to exercise caution and navigate safely around the vessel.

Understanding these signaling conventions is essential for safe navigation, particularly in low-visibility conditions such as fog, where visual cues may be significantly reduced. The other options represent different situations that have their own specific signals, highlighting the importance of knowing these distinctions for effective communication on the water.