Question 50 MODU02 - Barge Supervisor

The Correct Answer is B **Why Option B ("A vessel is in distress") is correct:** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) (Rule 37) and the Inland Rules (Subpart C, Rule 34), any continuous sounding of the fog whistle (or prolonged sounding of the bell or whistle) is a recognized distress signal. This signal is used to indicate that the vessel is in serious danger and requires immediate assistance. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) A request that the draw span of a bridge to be opened:** Bridge opening requests (in U.S. waters) typically involve specific short blast signals (usually one long blast followed by one short blast, or simply one long blast depending on the jurisdiction), not a continuous sounding of the whistle. * **C) That the vessel is anchored:** A vessel anchored in fog signals its presence by rapid ringing of the bell for about five seconds every minute, and optionally, a short, long, short blast signal on the whistle (COLREG Rule 35, Inland Rule 35). A continuous blast is not used for anchoring. * **D) A vessel is broken down and drifting:** While a vessel broken down may eventually declare distress, the specific signal for a vessel broken down or restricted in its ability to maneuver (underway but not making way) in fog is typically two prolonged blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes (COLREG Rule 35). A continuous blast is reserved exclusively for distress.