Question 50 LB01 - Lifeboat Operator

The Correct Answer is D. **Explanation for Option D ("All of the above"):** Option D is correct because an emergency sea anchor is a temporary device designed to stabilize the bow of a disabled vessel and keep it pointed into the waves (or wind) to prevent capsizing or uncontrolled drifting. Since a purpose-built sea anchor may not be available, resourceful mariners can construct an improvised one using almost any durable, buoyant, or drag-creating material available on the boat. * **A) An oar and canvas weighted down:** This is a classic and very effective improvised sea anchor. The canvas (or tarp, heavy clothing, etc.) provides significant drag, while the oar acts as a spreader/frame, and the weight (like tools or spare parts) helps the assembly sink slightly and remain stable beneath the surface. * **B) An air tank filled with water:** An air tank (such as a SCUBA tank or small propane cylinder, provided it is empty and safely secured) filled with water adds substantial weight and can be used as a heavy drogue/weighting element to help the primary dragging material (like clothing or a line basket) stay submerged and create drag. * **C) A boat bucket:** A sturdy boat bucket (or container, like a heavy-duty cooler or bailer) can be tied off the stern or bow. If holes are punched in the bottom or it is designed to catch water, it will fill, sink, and create significant hydrodynamic drag, effectively functioning as a sea anchor or drogue. Since all three options (A, B, and C) describe plausible and documented methods for creating an improvised emergency sea anchor or drogue in a survival situation, "All of the above" is the correct choice. **Brief Explanation of Why Other Options Are Incorrect (as standalone answers):** Although A, B, and C describe feasible components, they are technically incorrect as standalone answers because they exclude the other viable construction methods: * **A) An oar and canvas weighted down:** While this is a highly effective improvised anchor, it is not the *only* possible construction method, making it too narrow if other methods are also viable. * **B) An air tank filled with water:** This focuses on a heavy, weighting component. While essential for stability, this component alone usually does not provide sufficient drag without additional material (like rope or netting) attached, and it excludes the common and effective oar/canvas method. * **C) A boat bucket:** This is a viable method, but selecting only the bucket excludes the use of other common materials like tarps, oars, or heavy gear.