Question 13 FCP01 - First Class Pilot

The Correct Answer is A ### Explanation of Correct Option (A) **A) Slow to minimum to maintain course and navigate with caution** is correct because it directly follows Rule 19(e) (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and Inland Rules. Rule 19(e) mandates that when a vessel hears the fog signal of another vessel apparently forward of her beam, she: 1. **Must reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course.** This ensures the vessel retains steerage while reducing closing speed drastically. 2. **Must navigate with extreme caution** until the danger of collision is over. Option A perfectly encapsulates this required action. --- ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **B) Slow to moderate speed and navigate with caution** This is incorrect because "moderate speed" is not the legal requirement. The requirement is to reduce speed to the absolute **minimum necessary to maintain course and steerage**. A moderate speed is likely too fast when operating blind and hearing a vessel ahead. **C) Stop engines and navigate with caution** This is incorrect because, while it reduces speed, the priority in Rule 19(e) is maintaining steerage. Stopping engines completely may cause the vessel to lose the ability to maintain her course and safely maneuver. The rule specifies the minimum speed *at which she can be kept on her course*, implying the engine must remain engaged as necessary for steerage. **D) Maintain speed and sound five short and rapid blasts** This is incorrect for two reasons: 1. **Maintaining speed** is explicitly prohibited by Rule 19(e). The vessel must slow down. 2. **Five short and rapid blasts** (the danger signal) is used in clear visibility (Rule 34(d)) when a vessel is in sight and there is doubt about its intentions. It is not the required action when operating in restricted visibility (fog).