Question 39 GLI07 - OUPV

The Correct Answer is C 1. **Explanation for Option C ("four to six seconds"):** The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 32, defines the characteristics of sound signals. A "prolonged blast" is defined as a blast of from four to six seconds duration. This definition applies universally under both the International and Inland rules (as Inland rules typically incorporate or parallel the International definitions for basic signal elements). The required signal for a power-driven vessel making way in fog, or underway but stopped, always includes prolonged blasts, and the duration of those blasts must conform to this definition. 2. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) about one second:** This duration defines a "short blast," not a prolonged blast. A short blast is used for maneuvering signals (e.g., one short blast to mean "I am altering my course to starboard"). * **B) two to four seconds:** This range is too short. While it is longer than a short blast, it does not meet the minimum duration of four seconds required to be officially defined as a prolonged blast under COLREGs Rule 32. * **D) eight to ten seconds:** This range is too long. While the blast would certainly be "prolonged," it exceeds the maximum duration of six seconds specified by the regulations for a prolonged blast.