Question 49 GLI03 - Master-LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for Option C (The vessel is in distress):** According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Annex IV (Distress Signals), certain sounds and visual devices are recognized globally as indicating distress and the need for assistance. Hearing a gun or explosive signal fired at intervals of approximately one minute is explicitly listed as a recognized distress signal. This signal is designed to be loud, distinct, and unambiguous, immediately alerting nearby vessels that the source vessel is in grave and imminent danger and requires help. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) The gun is being used to sound passing signals:** Standard passing signals (e.g., using the ship's whistle) use short and long blasts defined by COLREGs Rule 34, not repeated gunfire at one-minute intervals. Gunfire is reserved for distress. * **B) All vessels are to clear the area:** While vessels should approach cautiously to render assistance when a distress signal is heard, the signal itself does not mean "clear the area." It specifically means "I am in distress and require assistance." * **D) All is clear and it is safe to pass:** A recognized distress signal inherently means the situation is *not* clear, and passing vessels must act under the general obligation to render assistance (SOLAS V/33).