Question 13 GLI05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 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 under Rule 19(e)(i) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters. Rule 19 governs the conduct of vessels in restricted visibility. Specifically, Rule 19(e) mandates that if a vessel detects the presence of another vessel forward of the beam by sound signal (the fog signal in this case), the vessel must take immediate action to comply with the following: 1. **Reduce speed to bare steerageway (minimum speed):** This is the "slow to minimum to maintain course" requirement. The vessel must be able to stop in a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. 2. **Proceed with caution:** This reinforces the need for heightened vigilance and careful maneuvering until the danger of collision is over. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) Slow to moderate speed and navigate with caution:** While navigating with caution is required, "moderate speed" is too fast. COLREGs require reducing speed to the *minimum* necessary for steerageway (bare steerageway), not merely a moderate reduction. * **C) Stop engines and navigate with caution:** While stopping engines might be appropriate if risk of collision is confirmed and immediate action is needed to avoid a close-quarters situation, the initial requirement upon hearing a fog signal forward of the beam is to reduce speed to bare steerageway (maintain course control). Completely stopping the engine while still underway may cause loss of steerageway and control, which is often undesirable in heavy fog unless immediate stopping is the safest action. The primary initial rule is to reduce speed to steerageway. * **D) Maintain speed and sound five short and rapid blasts:** Maintaining speed is a direct violation of Rule 19(e). Furthermore, sounding five short and rapid blasts (the danger signal) is used to indicate doubt about the other vessel's intentions or whether sufficient action is being taken. While you may have doubt, the primary and immediate action required upon hearing a fog signal ahead is reducing speed, not maintaining it and signaling doubt.