Whistles - Who should blow?

[GBFBUmp]

This has probably been discussed any number of times here, but as a 2nd year guy I still wonder what to do at times. Our association in Green Bay, and the varsity crew I sub for most of the time prefer a single whistle by the covering official, and rarely, if ever the umpire. Even suggesting that some plays don't need a whistle. I do understand that last one.

I am typically umpire, so I rarely hit my whistle unless a penalty on the o-line prior to snap.

Last night I was on a 7th - 8th grade double header, three man crew. First time Officiating with these gentlemen, and we got our rhythm going pretty well. I worked as umpire. I did of course need to use the whistle more as I covered downfield on plays to the side opposite linesman. We did have quite a few times where there where >1 whistle, and of course not always simultaneously. No IW's. A couple of questions from the coaches as to why 2 whistles, etc.

After the game, the linesman suggested he liked more than 1 whistle just to keep the kids and coaches well aware that the ball had become dead, even suggested that in the 5-man crews it would be nice.

Any suggestions on what is best mechanic, keep the whistles to a minimum, etc. I would like to know how others handle this, is it an issue if >1 are sounded, etc?

Thanks.