Question 13 GLI04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A states: "Slow to minimum to maintain course and navigate with caution." This action is required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility). Rule 19(e) mandates that when a vessel hears the fog signal of another vessel apparently forward of the beam, and an **apprehension of collision exists**, the vessel shall: 1. **Reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course.** 2. If necessary, take all way off (stop engines). 3. Navigate with extreme caution until the danger of collision is over. Hearing a fog signal ahead in heavy fog inherently creates an apprehension of collision, making the action to slow down to the minimum required speed mandatory. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) Slow to moderate speed and navigate with caution:** Rule 19 requires reducing speed to the *minimum necessary to maintain course*, not merely a "moderate" speed, which is still too fast given the potential for collision ahead. **C) Stop engines and navigate with caution:** While taking all way off (stopping engines) is an action allowed under Rule 19(e) if necessary, the primary and required immediate action is to reduce speed to the **minimum to maintain course**. Stopping completely might be necessary later, but it is not the *only* required initial step; reducing speed to steerage way is the first mandatory reduction. **D) Maintain speed and sound five short and rapid blasts:** Maintaining speed is a direct violation of Rule 19(e). Sounding five short and rapid blasts is the danger signal used under Rule 34(d) (Maneuvering and Warning Signals) when one vessel doubts the action or intent of another vessel that is *in sight*. In heavy fog, vessels are not in sight, and the proper action is defined by Rule 19, which requires speed reduction, not sounding a maneuvering warning signal.