The international emergency signal for distress is three repetitions of any signal. This can include three blasts on a whistle, three flashes with a mirror, three fires evenly spaced, or three gunshots. It is important to pause between repetitions to listen for a response. Distress signals are an internationally recognized means for obtaining help and are communicated by transmitting radio signals, displaying a visually observable item or illumination, or making a sound audible from a distance.