Question 50 UFV02 - Mate - Uninspected Fishing Vessels

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (A vessel is in distress):** The continuous sounding of any fog signal apparatus (whistle, horn, etc.) is universally recognized under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs, Rule 37) and Inland Rules as a distinct distress signal. It is not used for routine fog maneuvering, anchoring, or requests. A continuous sounding indicates that the vessel is facing grave danger and requires immediate assistance. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **A) A request that the draw span of a bridge to be opened:** Bridge opening requests (in U.S. waters) are typically made using short, distinct whistle blasts (usually one prolonged blast followed by one short blast or by radiotelephone), not a continuous sounding. * **C) That the vessel is anchored:** The signal for a vessel at anchor in restricted visibility is the rapid ringing of the ship's bell for about five seconds at intervals of not more than one minute (and possibly the sounding of a gong). This is a distinct, rhythmic signal, not a continuous sounding of the whistle. * **D) A vessel is broken down and drifting:** While a vessel broken down may be in distress, the specific signal for a vessel in distress is the continuous sounding. Simply being broken down and drifting does not automatically mandate the use of this extreme distress signal unless the situation is immediately life-threatening or puts the vessel in imminent danger of collision or grounding. If assistance is required, the distress signal (B) is the proper indication.