What is the international emergency sign for distress?

The international emergency sign for distress is characterized by three repeats of any signal. This pattern is widely recognized and can be used in a variety of situations, whether it’s visual or audio signaling, making it a versatile and effective method of indicating that someone is in trouble and needs assistance. The use of three repeats ensures that the signal stands out and captures the attention of others, as it is distinct from other forms of communication.

Other options, such as flashing a mirror, marking an X, or signaling with a whistle, while they can certainly be effective methods in specific contexts, do not have the same universally recognized standard of distress signals that the three repeats do. Each of those methods may not convey urgency on their own without the established context of being recognized as signals for help. Thus, the three repeats provide clear and unequivocal communication of distress internationally.