Question 49 ONC05 - Master or Mate of LT 200 GRT

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for C (The vessel is in distress):** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Annex IV, which details distress signals, and general maritime signaling practices, the firing of a gun or the display of other explosive signals at intervals of approximately one minute is a designated and internationally recognized signal of **distress** and the need for assistance. **Why Options A, B, and D are incorrect:** * **A) The gun is being used to sound passing signals:** Passing signals (maneuvering signals) are short blasts of the whistle (sound signaling apparatus) used when vessels are in sight of one another and maneuvering. They are not indicated by repeated gunshots at one-minute intervals. * **B) All vessels are to clear the area:** While a vessel in distress might cause surrounding vessels to move away to avoid collision or to facilitate rescue, the primary and immediate meaning of this specific signal is "I need help" (distress), not a command for others to clear the area. Other specific signals (like a general alarm) might be used for clearance, but not the distress gun signal. * **D) All is clear and it is safe to pass:** This signal indicates the opposite of "all clear." It signifies an extreme emergency. If all were clear, no signaling would generally be necessary, or the vessel might use specific maneuvering signals if intending to pass another vessel.