Question 13 ONC07 - OUPV-Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A, "Slow to minimum to maintain course and navigate with caution," is the correct action required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 19 (Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility). Rule 19(e) states: "Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters situation with an apparently forward of her beam, shall reduce her speed to a minimum at which she can be kept on her course and navigate with extreme caution until the danger of collision is over." Slowing to the minimum speed required for maneuverability and navigating with caution (or "extreme caution" as per the rule) allows the mariner maximum time to assess the situation, stop, or take avoiding action if necessary, minimizing the risk of collision in the poor visibility conditions. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **B) Slow to moderate speed and navigate with caution:** A "moderate" speed is undefined and generally too fast in restricted visibility when a risk of collision is apparent (i.e., hearing a signal ahead). The rules specifically require reducing speed to the *minimum* (steerageway speed), not just an arbitrary slower speed. * **C) Stop engines and navigate with caution:** While stopping engines might be a later step, the immediate requirement is to maintain steerageway (the minimum speed to maintain course). Stopping the engines entirely would leave the vessel dead in the water, potentially unmaneuverable, which increases risk unless the vessel is certain it is safe to do so. * **D) Maintain speed and sound five short and rapid blasts:** Maintaining speed is a clear violation of Rule 19(e), which mandates reducing speed. Sounding five short and rapid blasts is the "danger signal" used to indicate doubt about another vessel's intentions, but it is not the required action when initially hearing a signal ahead in fog; the required action is speed reduction and caution. (Furthermore, Rule 19 does not require an immediate danger signal upon merely hearing a fog signal ahead).