Question 27 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C is Correct Option C is correct because it accurately describes the required lighting configuration for a power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside (hip-tow) when operating **INLAND ONLY** specifically on the **Western Rivers** above the Huey P. Long Bridge (Mississippi River mile 106.1), as specified by the Inland Navigational Rules (33 CFR Subchapter E). Rule 24(g) of the Inland Rules provides an exception for vessels operating exclusively on the Western Rivers (and certain other designated waters). It states that a power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing alongside **shall exhibit the sidelights and two towing lights** in a vertical line. * **Sidelights:** Required for any vessel underway. * **Two Towing Lights:** Inland Rule 24(a)(i) requires a vessel towing to show two towing lights in a vertical line instead of the usual stern light. On the Western Rivers, this specific configuration (sidelights and two towing lights) is the established standard for pushing ahead or towing alongside. Notably, the white masthead lights are often omitted under this specific Western Rivers exception (Rule 24(g)). ### Why the Other Options are Incorrect **A) one masthead light, sidelights, and stern light** * **Incorrect:** This configuration (one masthead light and stern light) is generally for a power-driven vessel under 50 meters in length *not* engaged in towing. It fails to include the required two towing lights (which replace the stern light when towing) and incorrectly specifies only one masthead light, which is often omitted entirely under the Western Rivers exception. **B) two masthead lights, sidelights, and stern light** * **Incorrect:** This configuration incorrectly specifies a stern light. When towing, the vessel must exhibit two towing lights instead of a stern light. While a vessel towing might exhibit two or three masthead lights under other rules (e.g., International Rules or general Inland Rules 24(a) or (b)), the specific Western Rivers exception for pushing/towing alongside (Rule 24(g)) focuses on the sidelights and two towing lights, often omitting the masthead lights. **D) two masthead lights, sidelights, and two towing lights** * **Incorrect:** While this configuration includes the sidelights and the correct two towing lights, the specific exception for the Western Rivers (Rule 24(g)) generally dictates that only the **sidelights and two towing lights** are required for pushing ahead or towing alongside. Adding the two masthead lights goes beyond the minimum, specific requirement for this type of operation in this geographical area. The rule explicitly names only the sidelights and two towing lights.