We keep within shouting distance of other team members to facilitate communication. But even buddies can't always talk at conversation volume due to wind and wave noise, compounded by distance. We share these signals with you in hope that a standard signal set will evolve so kayakers anywhere can readily communicate. To save time and avoid confusion, a common grammar must be used. For simplicity, we structure sentences in a rudimentary manner.
Most signals indicate commands.
Some indicate personal action, others describe something or someone, while other signals ask questions. Some signals have multiple meanings which become obvious in context. There is a breakdown of common signals used by the Tsunami Rangers at sea in the table available here. These comprise the bulk of signals that we use most often. Occasionally we add new ones or drop ones that have no use.