Question 35 ONC03 - Master LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Why option A ("one prolonged blast") is correct:** According to the U.S. Inland Rules of the Road (specifically Rule 34(d)), a power-driven vessel leaving a dock or berth is required to sound a signal of **one prolonged blast** (a prolonged blast is defined as a blast of 4 to 6 seconds duration). This signal is meant to warn other vessels of its approach or intention to get underway. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) four short blasts:** A sequence of four (or more) short blasts is the danger or uncertainty signal (Rule 34(e)), used when a vessel is in doubt about the intentions of another vessel or believes a close-quarters situation exists. It is not the signal for leaving a dock or berth. * **C) one long blast:** While the term "long blast" is sometimes used colloquially, the official term in the Rules is "prolonged blast." More importantly, the signal "one long blast" is sometimes associated with vessels operating in restricted visibility (Rule 35) but is not the specific maneuvering signal for leaving a dock or berth. * **D) no signal is required:** This is incorrect. The Inland Rules mandate the use of the prolonged blast signal for vessels getting underway from a dock or berth to provide sufficient warning to other traffic.