The Signal, Mk 13 Mod 0 is a combination distress signal for use under day or night dis-tress conditions, or both. Because of its small size it can be acrried conveniently in poc-kets of of live-vests, flight suits or life rafts. It is particurlarly adapted for use by aircraft pilots downed at sea.

General: This signal is similar in appearance and operation to the Signal, Distress, Smoke, Hand, AN Mark 1 Mod 1. Whereas the Signal AN Mark 1 Mod 1 is a smoke signal for use only under daytime distress conditions, the Signal Mk 13 Mod 0 contains the same orange smoke canister in addition to a pyrotechnic flare pellet for use under night distress conditions. The signal consists of a metal cylinder outer case 5-1/8 inches long and 1-5/8 inches in diameter. Weight of the signal is 6.4 ounces. Both ends of the metal tube are closed by a soldered cap to which is attached a pull ring for insertion of the in-dex finger. Upon removal of the soldered closing cap, a brass wire attached to the bot-tom thereof is pulled through a small cup coated with a friction igniting composition. This action results in igniting the pyrotechnic flare or the smoke composition depending on which pull ring is removed. Smoke emission time is approximately 18 seconds. Flare burn-ing time is 18 to 20 seconds. Average candle power of the burning flare is 3,000 candles. The soldered caps on both ends of the signal are covered with a paper cap in order to prevent the possibility of an accidental pull on the pull rings. These paper caps should be removed sometime before actual use in order that the pull ring will be readily accessible when desired.

Fig. 1. Signal (Distress Day and Night) Mk 13 Mod 0

Fig 30a. Signal (Distress Day and Night) Mark 13 Mod 0

Operation: The signal body carries an illustrated decalcomania which shows in detail the method of operation. The flare end of the tube (for night use) can be identified by a ser-ies of embossed projections extending around the case approximately 1/4" below the clo-sure.

The following steps should be followed in the operation of this signal:

(a) Having determined which end of the signal it is desired to use (smoke for day, flare for night) remover the paper cap which is glued to the signal body. (This cap should ordi-narily be removed before the time of actual use)

(b) Point signal away from face and give a quick pull on the pull ring which will come away from the can, thereby igniting the composition.

NOTE; If unable to remove the soldered cap in this manner, bring the pull ring down over the rim of the can and press down, using the ring as a lever to break the seal.

(c) Hold signal at arm's length at an angle of about 30° from the horizontal to prevent the possibility of hot drippings or discharge falling on the hand. After one end has been used, the signal should immediately be doused in the water in order to cool the metal parts. The signal should then be retained for use of the opposite end when required. Each section of the singal is well waterproofed and insulated against tranfer of heat from one section to the other.

Stowage: The Signal, Mk 13 Mod 0 should be stowed in a cool, dry place, in accordance with standard pyrotechnic stowage rules.

Packing: These signals are shipped from the place of manufacture in wooden boxes con-taining 100 signals.

Weight of the box containing the 100 signals is approximately 70 pounds. It is contem-plated that a metal can to carry four (4) Signals, Mk 13 Mod 0 suitable for stowage on life boats, floater nets etc. will also be made available at a later date.

Safety Precautions

(a) When igniting the signal, it must be pointed away from the body and face at all times.

(b) Signal should not be subjected to rough handling.

(c) Never attempt to ignite both ends of the signal at the same time.

(d) If possible, the signal should be doused in water immediately after using one end, be-fore using the opposite end.