Question 3 LB01 - Lifeboat Operator

The Correct Answer is A **Why Option A is Correct:** Option A is a direct restatement of the requirement found in Rule 36 (Signals to Attract Attention) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (as the Inland Rules generally mirror or reference COLREGs for this provision). Rule 36 states: "If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel any vessel may make any light or sound signal that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized elsewhere in these Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the direction of the danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel." The primary limitation on using non-standard signals is that they absolutely must not be confused with maneuvering, warning, or distress signals defined elsewhere in the Rules, as this could lead to dangerous misinterpretation. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **B) White lights are not used to attract the attention of another vessel:** This is incorrect. Rule 36 explicitly permits the use of **any light or sound signal** as long as it cannot be mistaken for an authorized signal. Furthermore, Rule 36 specifically authorizes the use of a searchlight beam (which is typically a white light) to attract attention or indicate danger, provided it does not embarrass another vessel. * **C) The signal may be the continuous sounding of a foghorn:** This is incorrect. A continuous sounding of a foghorn would be easily mistaken for a vessel signaling distress (Rule 37), or potentially misinterpreted as a signal required during restricted visibility (Rule 35), thus violating the fundamental requirement of Rule 36 that the signal **cannot be mistaken** for an authorized signal. * **D) Special flashing yellow lights may be used to attract the attention of another vessel:** This is generally incorrect or misleading in the context of unrestricted "any signal." While Inland Rules do authorize special flashing yellow lights for specific situations (e.g., air cushion vessels, or crossing lights for tugs pushing ahead), these authorized signals are *already* defined in the Rules. Rule 36 refers to the use of *unauthorized* or non-standard signals to attract attention. While one could potentially flash a yellow light in an unauthorized manner, the use of a "special flashing yellow light" (as defined under the Rules) is already reserved for specific vessels/actions and therefore is not the general permissive signal described in Rule 36 for attracting attention.