Question 26 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is A ### Explanation for A (You need not sound any whistle signals.) This statement is correct based on the application of the Inland Rules of Navigation (Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals). 1. **Rule 34(a) Requirement:** Under Inland Rules, maneuvering signals (one, two, or three blasts) are required only when power-driven vessels are "in sight of one another" and are "approaching each other and involving a risk of collision." These signals are used to communicate intentions for collision avoidance. 2. **Distance Exception:** The scenario specifies that the vessels are **more than 0.5 mile away**. While the maneuver (engines astern) involves communication (three short blasts), this distance places the vessels outside of the immediate maneuvering range where signals are mandatory for collision avoidance under Rule 34(a). Since the vessels are too far apart to be considered "approaching each other" with an immediate risk of collision that warrants whistle communication, no signal is required. *** ### Why Other Options Are Incorrect **B) You must sound whistle signals only if the vessels are meeting.** This is incorrect. While the Inland Rules require whistle signals for maneuvering in meeting, crossing, and overtaking situations (when approaching), the rule applies universally to any maneuver involving collision risk. However, regardless of the situation (meeting, crossing, etc.), the signal is not required because the vessels are too far apart (more than 0.5 mile) to require mandatory communication under Rule 34(a). **C) You must sound one blast if backing to starboard.** This is incorrect. One short blast signals an intent to alter course to starboard (or pass port-to-port). The action described is "engines full speed astern," which, if required, must be indicated by **three short blasts**, not one. **D) You must sound three short blasts on the whistle.** This is incorrect. Three short blasts is the correct signal for "I am operating astern propulsion." However, under Rule 34(a) (Inland), this signal is only *mandatory* when vessels are in sight and "approaching each other and involving a risk of collision." Since the vessels are more than 0.5 mile away, they are too far apart for the signal to be required for collision avoidance communication.