Guys,

in the boatless wintertime I have lots of time on my hands to ponder
about theoretical questions like this:

I wonder in what situations should we send a MAYDAY and/or fire a red
parachute flare (not the little flare)?

I know the official lingo: If there is a threat to life or health....

But lets look at actual examples.

- Please give examples when you DID send a MAYDAY for yourself or
others? And / or fired a red (SOLAS) or one of the required invisible
flares?

- Please give examples where you DID not do such but were wondering if
you should (have).

- Please MAKE UP examples where you would or would not send mayday or
launch a flare.

Examples:

- I respond to a CG call that someone fell off a bridge (in the water).
I get there, nobody else is there. Flare to attract others?

- I see a powerboat drifting under wind and waves into a cliff. I know
it WILL be nasty but isnt yet. My ETA would be 10 minutes. Wait, til
they crash, then mayday? Wait til they crash, go there, then mayday?

- From the distance I see that 2 boats collided, but dont kow if
anybody got hurt. Mayday or go there first?

Please share your opinion AND personal experience about right/wrong and
good/bad examples.

Matt