What does the night time hand signal of a wave chemlight indicate?

The night time hand signal using a wave chemlight indicates "move in for pick up." This signal is vital for surface rescue swimmers and rescue personnel, as it provides a clear and visually distinct method of communication in low-light conditions.

When a swimmer or person in distress activates a wave chemlight, it serves as both a beacon and a directional guide, signaling to responders that they are ready and able to be recovered. This is particularly important in nighttime scenarios where visibility is limited, and it allows rescue crews to approach safely and efficiently. Knowing that the person is signaling for pick up helps responders to assess their position and plan a safe retrieval, thereby minimizing the risk of further complications during the rescue operation.

In contrast, different signals such as direct requests for rescue or general signals for help carry different implications and urgency levels that would not align with the specific instruction given by a wave chemlight.