Question 47 GLI04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** The required fog signal for a vessel being towed (whether manned or unmanned, but usually specified for a vessel being towed if the tow is significantly restricted in maneuverability, or if the towed vessel is manned and needs to announce its presence) is defined in Rule 35(e) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (as US Inland Rules mirror this rule). Rule 35(e) states: "A vessel being towed may, at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, make the signal specified in subparagraph (c) [one prolonged followed by two short blasts], and shall, in addition, make at intervals of not more than 2 minutes, one prolonged followed by three short blasts." While the vessel doing the towing makes the required signal for a power-driven vessel underway (one prolonged), the **vessel being towed (if manned)** is required to sound: **One prolonged followed by three short blasts**. This signal specifically identifies it as a vessel being towed. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) One prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This is the required signal for a vessel **not under command (NUC)**, a vessel **restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM)**, a vessel **constrained by her draft (CBD)** (International only), a **sailing vessel**, or a vessel **engaged in fishing** (including trawling). It is also the signal the vessel being towed *may* choose to make, but the *required* identifying signal is one prolonged followed by three short blasts (D). * **B) Two prolonged blasts:** This is the required signal for a vessel **at anchor**. * **C) One prolonged followed by one short blast:** This signal is not defined as a standard fog signal under Rule 35. (Note: Power-driven vessels may use a prolonged blast followed by one short blast when leaving a berth or dock under some circumstances, but this is not the required fog signal for a vessel being towed.)