When facing a survival situation in the water, what is the best way to signal your location?

Using bright-colored clothing or objects is an effective way to signal your location in a survival situation on the water because bright colors stand out against the natural hues of the environment, such as the blue of the ocean or the green of foliage. This visibility can attract the attention of rescuers, aircraft, or passing ships. Bright colors are more likely to be noticed from a distance, especially in favorable lighting conditions.

In contrast, swimming in circles may help maintain your body's heat or keep you visible, but it does not effectively signal your location. Staying submerged would prevent you from being seen altogether, significantly decreasing your chances of being rescued. Constructing a makeshift raft might assist in floating and conserving energy, but without being able to signal your location effectively, it would not increase your chances of rescue. The use of bright colors is a straightforward and essential strategy in survival scenarios on the water.