Question 9 ONC02 - Second Mate/Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Both vessels alter course to starboard):** This situation is governed by Rule 14 (Head-on Situation) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which applies to both International and Inland waters (where adopted). Rule 14(a) states: "When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision, **each shall alter her course to starboard** so that each shall pass on the port side of the other." This is the mandatory action required to resolve a head-on meeting risk situation. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:** * **A) Sound at least five short and rapid blasts:** This signal (at least five short and rapid blasts) is the **danger signal** (Rule 34(d)). It is used when a vessel is in doubt about the intentions or actions of another vessel or believes a risk of collision exists due to the other vessel's actions. While uncertainty may precede or accompany the required action, it is not the *required action* for resolving the head-on situation itself. The required action is the course change (D), accompanied by a one short blast signal (one short blast means "I am altering my course to starboard"). * **B) Back down:** Backing down means reversing the engines. While reducing speed or stopping engines may be required under Rule 8 (Action to avoid collision) or Rule 19 (Restricted Visibility), it is not the primary, mandatory maneuver specifically defined for resolving a head-on meeting situation under Rule 14. * **C) Both vessels shall stop their engines:** Stopping engines falls under Rule 8 (Action to avoid collision) and Rule 19(b) (Action in restricted visibility) and is an element of good seamanship and collision avoidance. However, like backing down (B), it is not the mandatory, defining maneuver specified by Rule 14 for resolving a clear head-on meeting situation; the mandated action is the course alteration to starboard.