Question 45 RVR02 - Master of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for A (Correct Answer):** Option A ("Three strokes on the bell before and after the anchor signal") is the correct signal for a vessel aground when operating in or near an area of restricted visibility (like fog), as stipulated by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), Rule 35(g) (which applies equally to International and Inland waters). Rule 35(g) specifies that a vessel aground in restricted visibility shall give the anchor signal (a rapid ringing of the bell for about five seconds, followed by a rapid ringing of the gong for about five seconds, if applicable), and additionally, shall sound **three separate and distinct strokes on the bell immediately before and immediately after** the rapid ringing of the bell. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) Three strokes on the gong before and after sounding the anchor signal:** While the anchor signal involves the bell and possibly the gong (if the vessel is 100 meters or more in length), the specific additional warning signal for being aground uses the **bell**, not the gong, immediately before and after the rapid ringing of the bell. **C) Four short blasts on the whistle:** Four short blasts on the whistle is not the prescribed signal for a vessel aground in fog. Short blasts (less than one second duration) are typically used for maneuvering and warning signals (like five short blasts for danger/doubt), but not for indicating a grounded status in restricted visibility. **D) One prolonged and one short blast on the whistle:** This signal combination (one prolonged and one short blast) is used by a power-driven vessel when leaving a dock or berth, or by a pilot vessel when identifying itself, but it is not the signal for a vessel aground in restricted visibility. The required grounding signal utilizes the bell and, for larger vessels, the gong.