Nautical Term: Running lights
Definition of Running lights
at night, a vessel or tow in operation is required to display specific lights, referred to as running lights. These lights ensure that the vessel or tow can be easily identified and distinguished from other vessels or towers in the vicinity, thereby enhancing safety at sea.
For instance, imagine a cargo ship sailing through the North Atlantic Ocean during the late hours of the night. The ship, while underway, displays its running lights, which consist of a green light on the starboard (right) side, and a red light on the port (left) side. These lights help to clearly identify the ship’s position, direction, and size to other vessels or mariners in the area, thus ensuring safe navigation and reducing the likelihood of collisions or other mishaps at sea.
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