Question 40 UFV02 - Mate - Uninspected Fishing Vessels

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (about 1 second):** Option A ("about 1 second") is correct because it defines a **short blast** (a blast of about one second's duration), which is the specific type of whistle signal used under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the U.S. Inland Rules for maneuvering signals in head-on and/or crossing situations (Rules 34(a) and 34(b)). These signals convey intent or action: * One short blast: "I intend to leave you on my port side." (International and Inland Rule 34(a)) or "I am directing my course to starboard." (Inland Rule 34(a)(i)) * Two short blasts: "I intend to leave you on my starboard side." (International and Inland Rule 34(a)) or "I am directing my course to port." (Inland Rule 34(a)(ii)) * Three short blasts: "I am operating astern propulsion." (Rule 34(c)) Since all maneuvering signals in these situations rely on short blasts, the duration is defined as "about 1 second." **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) 2 to 4 seconds:** This duration range does not correspond to any standard maneuvering or warning signal. While a blast of about 4 to 6 seconds is defined as a "prolonged blast" (see C), 2 to 4 seconds is not a standard regulatory duration. * **C) 4 to 6 seconds:** This duration defines a **prolonged blast** (a blast of 4 to 6 seconds' duration). Prolonged blasts are used for warning/awareness signals, such as when nearing a bend or leaving a berth (Rule 34(e)), or as the required sound signals during restricted visibility (Rule 35). They are not used for the specific maneuvering signals in head-on or crossing situations (Rule 34(a)). * **D) 8 to 10 seconds:** This duration is significantly longer than any standard regulatory blast (short or prolonged) and is not used for standardized whistle signals under COLREGs/Inland Rules.