Question 48 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C **Why option C ("One prolonged and two short blasts at two-minute intervals") is correct:** Rule 35(c) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) governs fog signals for vessels not under command, restricted in their ability to maneuver, constrained by their draft, sailing vessels, vessels engaged in fishing, and vessels engaged in towing or pushing. A vessel engaged in fishing, whether international or inland (as both generally adhere to COLREGs Rule 35 or equivalent rules), must sound the signal prescribed in Rule 35(c). This signal is: **one prolonged blast followed by two short blasts** at intervals of not more than two minutes. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) A rapid ringing of the bell for five seconds at one-minute intervals:** This is the fog signal (along with sounding the gong) required for a **vessel at anchor** (Rule 35(f)). While the vessel is *at anchor*, its primary status for sounding purposes is "vessel engaged in fishing" if it is still actively maintaining that status (e.g., has gear deployed). Furthermore, the required interval for the bell signal for a vessel at anchor is *not more than one minute*, but this signal (bell/gong) does not apply to a fishing vessel. * **B) One prolonged and three short blasts at two-minute intervals:** This is the fog signal required for a **towed vessel** (Rule 35(e)), if manned. It is not the signal for a vessel engaged in fishing. * **D) A sounding of the bell and gong at one-minute intervals:** As noted in the explanation for A, this is the fog signal required for a **vessel at anchor** (Rule 35(f)). While the vessel is at anchor, it is also engaged in fishing. When a vessel has a dual status, the COLREGs prioritize the signal that best describes its restricted status. A vessel engaged in fishing is considered a "restricted" vessel type under Rule 35(c) and must sound the "one prolonged and two short blasts" signal, overriding the general signal for a vessel merely at anchor.