Question 49 ONC03 - Master LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C The vessel is in distress. According to international maritime law (specifically the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea – COLREGs, Annex IV, Distress Signals), the continuous sounding of a fog signal apparatus (which can be a horn or whistle), or the firing of a gun or explosive signal at intervals of approximately one minute, is an internationally recognized signal indicating that a vessel is in distress and requires assistance. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) The gun is being used to sound passing signals:** Passing signals (or maneuvering signals) are short blasts sounded on the whistle (or horn) and are governed by COLREGs Rule 34. They are short in duration and are not typically done using a gun, nor are they repeated at one-minute intervals. * **B) All vessels are to clear the area:** While a distress signal implies a dangerous situation, the purpose of the signal is not to simply tell vessels to clear the area, but specifically to call for help and indicate distress. * **D) All is clear and it is safe to pass:** This is the opposite of what the signal indicates. A continuous, regularly repeating signal of an explosive nature (like a gun) indicates an emergency and extreme danger, not that conditions are safe.