Question 7 TV01 - Towing Vessels - Oceans or Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for C (Correct Option):** Option C states, "You may sound at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle." This action is governed by **Rule 34(d)** (Maneuvering and Warning Signals) of the **COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea)**, which applies internationally. Rule 34(d) states: > "When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and from any cause, either vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of the other, or is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other to avoid collision, the vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt by sounding at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle (the 'danger signal')." While the scenario involves a narrow channel (Rule 9), the immediate operational requirement here is addressing the **doubt** about the crossing vessel's intentions when a risk of collision potentially exists. The danger signal (at least five short blasts) is the specific international requirement for indicating doubt or uncertainty regarding another vessel's actions or intentions. Therefore, sounding the danger signal is the correct action. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) You must sound one prolonged and two short blasts:** This signal (one prolonged and two short blasts) is specified in Rule 34(e) for use when a vessel is approaching a bend or an area of the channel where other vessels may be obscured. While Rule 9 deals with narrow channels, this specific signal indicates an obscured approach, not doubt regarding a visible crossing vessel's intentions. **B) You should sound one short blast to indicate that you are holding course and speed:** Under the international rules (COLREGs), a sound signal indicates an *action* being taken, not a declaration of *holding* course. One short blast means, "I am altering my course to starboard." Since you are uncertain of the other vessel's actions, announcing an alteration (which you may not be taking, especially if you must stay in the channel) or trying to signal a "holding" action (which doesn't exist as a specific sound signal under international rules) would be confusing and inappropriate. **D) You are required to back down:** While taking collision avoidance action (which might include backing down) is required if a risk of collision exists and the other vessel is not taking sufficient action (Rule 17), the **immediate requirement** when you are *in doubt* about the other vessel's intentions is to signal that doubt using the danger signal (Option C), before committing to a drastic maneuver like backing down, especially since the narrow channel constraint might limit options. The signal requirement precedes the mandated maneuver.