voc2021 ep 26: Sirius Signal for life

Anthony Covelli
(Courtesy LinkedIn)

Steven Caldero (Courtesy LinkedIn)

SAN DIEGO, September 2, 2021 — Sirius Signal, the company that created the world’s first U.S. Coast Guard-approved two-color SOS marine distress light, is excited to announce the first SOS distress signal incorporated within standard navigation lights. All boats must have the ability to display the required navigation lights while operating at night or in reduced visibility. “Due to the increased popularity of recreational boating as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, water rescues and fatalities have increased,” said Steven Caldero, Sirius Signal vice president. “Our solution is simply to provide superior technology and products that make boating at night safe.”

The SAS (Supplemental Alert System) is similar to a car’s hazard light system. American cars since 1967 have mandated emergency flashers as standard equipment. “Why not recreational boats, too?” asked Anthony Covelli, Sirius Signal CEO. A simple toggle of the standard navigation light switch (off and on) transforms an all-around white mast light to a two-color distress light—flashing SOS in red-orange/cyan. An infrared LED also flashes SOS for night vision aerial assets. No new wiring or switches are required; the Sirius Signal SAS system replaces a boat’s standard all- around white light. Standard configuration on boats less than 39.4 feet (12 meters) is as follows: One all-around white light that can be seen from 360 degrees and from three miles away; One pair of red and green side lights that are visible at 112.5 degrees and from one mile away. The Sirius Signal SAS (Supplemental Alert System) will be unveiled at The Annapolis Sailboat Show on October 14th, 2021 at 10:00am.