Question 45 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Correct Answer (A):** Option A ("Three strokes on the bell before and after the anchor signal") is correct because it directly reflects the requirements outlined in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 35(g), which applies both internationally and under the Inland Rules. Rule 35(g) specifies that a vessel aground shall, in addition to the anchor signal (rapid ringing of the bell for about 5 seconds at intervals of not more than one minute, and optionally followed by the rapid ringing of the gong for about 5 seconds), give **three separate and distinct strokes on the bell immediately preceding and immediately following** the rapid ringing of the bell. These three distinct strokes serve as the required specific warning signal that the vessel is aground. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **B) Three strokes on the gong before and after sounding the anchor signal:** While a gong is often used in conjunction with the bell for anchor signals on larger vessels, the specific regulation (Rule 35(g)) mandates that the three distinct warning strokes must be sounded on the **bell**, not the gong. * **C) Four short blasts on the whistle:** Four short blasts on the whistle are not the prescribed signal for a vessel aground. Whistle signals usually involve prolonged and short blasts and are used for maneuvering, warning, or restricted visibility signals (e.g., five short blasts indicate doubt or danger). * **D) One prolonged and one short blast on the whistle:** This signal (one prolonged and one short blast) is used in the Inland Rules when a power-driven vessel is leaving a dock or berth. It is not the signal prescribed for a vessel aground in fog.