SEMAPHORE FLAGS 

There are different types of semaphore flags like the Japanese semaphore flags.
Flag semaphore is the telegraphy system showing information at a distance be means  of visual signals with hand-held flags rods,discs,paddles or occasionally bare or gloved hands.Information is encoded by this position of the flags; it is read when the flags are in fixed position.Semaphore was adopted and widely used [with hand-held flags replacing the mechanical arms of shutter semaphore]in the maritime world in 19th century.It is still used during underway replenishment at the sea and is acceptable for emergency communication in daylight or using lighted wands instead of flags, at night. 
Australia navy crewmen signal using semaphore flags during an underway replenishment exercise 2005.

By Harriet And Jade