What is the minimum range of a 'special flashing light'?

The minimum range of a 'special flashing light' is indeed 2 miles. According to the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), special flashing lights are used on vessels to indicate their presence or activity, especially in situations where it is important for them to be seen by other vessels, such as when conducting specific operations or in restricted visibility conditions.

These lights are designed to be highly visible, and the range of 2 miles ensures that they can be observed from a sufficient distance to allow other vessels to react appropriately and safely. This range is critical for maintaining safe navigation and preventing collisions at sea, especially for vessels operating in congested or hazardous waters.

The specification of this range highlights the importance of visibility for certain types of vessels, ensuring that they meet safety requirements while on the water. Other ranges like 1 mile, 3 miles, or 4 miles do not align with the regulation standards set forth for special flashing lights, indicating they serve different functions or visibility criteria.