Signal mirror

A highly-reflective mirror used to reflect sunlight, moonlight or, in some cases an source of artificial light to a potential rescuer. A good signal mirror can be seen up to 10 mi (16 km) and the flash can be seen up to 50 mi (80 km) distance. The record for a signal mirror is 105 mi (169 km)! Given the size, weight and utility of a signal mirror, these should be considered a standard component in any kayakers kit. Get one and keep it in your PFD pocket.

Not all mirrors are created equal.

• Good mirrors have an aiming device.
• Some folks advocate using a used CD or DVD. However, they are not very reflective (you can see thru them, after all). Tests have shown that they are only about 20-25% as effective as a true signal mirror. Do yourself a favour and get a proper, highly-reflective mirror. Commercial signal mirrors are readily available.
• Standard USCG signal mirrors are 4x5 inches.
• Standard large mil-spec signal mirrors are 3x5 inches.
• Standard small mil-spec signal mirrors are 2x3 inches.
• Mil-spec mirrors float.
• Glass mirrors are harder (scratch resistant) and brighter than plastic, but are heavier and more likely to shatter.
• Plastic mirrors should be thick to avoid distortion. Distortion of the reflection will reduce the effectiveness.
• Some brands have a red side reputed to be useful for generating a red flash with a flashlight. Tests have shown that using the flashlight directly and not using the red mirror is much more effective.

If you don't have a mirror, you can improvise with any polished object, such as a knife blade. Hold one hand at arms length with thumb extended. Look at the object you are trying to shine the light at and place your thumb in the line of sight. When you shine the mirror's light on your thumb, the light will now be pointing at the object of interest.

One person's choice:

I carry a Rescue Reflectors buoyant plastic mirror It is 3" x 5" in size and 4 oz. in weight. Cost is about $20 including shipping.

The kind that are mirrored on both sides and have a little hole in the middle are the most accurate to aim. The instructions that come with the mirror should show you how it works.

I hope I never let myself get in a situation where I need to use it but, it is there. It is a very simple one-handed thing to use.

Another note: This brand of mirror has been tested and is considered one of the best on the market.