Question 48 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C **Why Option C ("One prolonged and two short blasts at two-minute intervals") is correct:** This question relates to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 35 (Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility). * **Rule 35 (c) (International and Inland):** This rule specifies the fog signal required for a vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, a vessel constrained by her draught, **a sailing vessel, a vessel engaged in fishing, and a vessel engaged in towing or pushing**. * The required signal for these types of vessels is **one prolonged blast followed by two short blasts** at intervals of not more than two minutes. * A vessel engaged in fishing, whether making way or at anchor (as the rule does not distinguish the fishing vessel's operational status regarding this signal), must sound this pattern. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) A rapid ringing of the bell for five seconds at one-minute intervals:** This signal (a rapid ringing of the bell for five seconds) is the signal required for a vessel **at anchor** (Rule 35(g)). While the fishing vessel is at anchor, it must use the signal appropriate to its operational status (engaged in fishing, which supersedes the 'at anchor' signal) as per Rule 35(c). * **B) One prolonged and three short blasts at two-minute intervals:** This signal is designated for a **vessel being towed** (Rule 35(e)). * **D) A sounding of the bell and gong at one-minute intervals:** This refers to the requirement for a vessel **at anchor** in a specific area (a bell forward and a gong aft, sounded at intervals of not more than one minute), but the specific pattern is a rapid ringing of the bell for five seconds (Rule 35(g)). More importantly, the required operational status signal for a fishing vessel supersedes this general signal.