Question 13 ONC06 - Master LT 100 GRT

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation of Option A (Correct):** Option A states: "Slow to minimum to maintain course and navigate with caution." This action is required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 19 (Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility). * **Rule 19(e)** applies when a vessel hears the fog signal of another vessel apparently forward of the beam, or detects by radar a close-quarters situation (CQS) or risk of collision. * The Rule requires the vessel to reduce her speed to the minimum at which she can be kept on her course. If necessary, she must take all way off (stop her engines) and, in any event, navigate with extreme caution until the danger of collision is over. * Slowing to the minimum speed necessary to maintain steerageway is the primary mandated action to increase reaction time and minimize the effects of a potential collision. **Explanation of Other Options (Incorrect):** * **B) Slow to moderate speed and navigate with caution:** This is incorrect. Rule 19 requires reducing speed to the *minimum* necessary to maintain course, not merely a "moderate" reduction. "Moderate speed" might still be too fast for the prevailing conditions and the proximity of the other vessel. * **C) Stop engines and navigate with caution:** While stopping the engines (taking all way off) is an action that *may* be required if necessary to avoid collision, Rule 19(e) first mandates reducing speed to the *minimum to maintain course*. Stopping the engines immediately, while maintaining steerageway is still possible, is not the initial required action, although it is an option if the danger is imminent. * **D) Maintain speed and sound five short and rapid blasts:** This is incorrect for two reasons. First, maintaining speed violates Rule 19(e) which requires reduction of speed. Second, sounding five short and rapid blasts (the danger signal) is used when a vessel is in doubt about the intention of another vessel or believes a close-quarters situation is developing, but it is not the required action solely based on hearing a fog signal ahead in restricted visibility. The primary duty is to reduce speed immediately.