Question 49 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for Option C (The vessel is in distress):** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs, specifically Annex IV detailing Distress Signals) and general maritime practice for inland waters, the repeated sounding of a signaling device, such as a gun or mortar, at intervals of approximately one minute is a recognized and mandatory signal of **distress** and the need for assistance. This distinct timing distinguishes it from navigational or passing signals. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) The gun is being used to sound passing signals:** Passing signals (like those used when maneuvering in sight of another vessel) are typically short blasts on the whistle or horn (e.g., one, two, or three short blasts) and are not sustained firing of a gun at one-minute intervals. * **B) All vessels are to clear the area:** While a vessel in distress may indirectly require other vessels to clear the immediate vicinity for rescue operations, this phrase is too general. The direct and primary indication of the one-minute gun signal is distress, not an instruction for other vessels to disperse. * **D) All is clear and it is safe to pass:** Distress signals are the complete opposite of a signal indicating safety or that the area is clear. If a vessel were indicating safety, it would use standard navigational procedures or silence.