Question 2489 Deck General

The correct answer is C) back down on your engines. When you have just let go of a tow, the towline and associated gear can still pose a significant danger to your vessel and crew. Backing down on your engines creates tension on the towline, pulling it away from the vessel and reducing the risk of it fouling the propeller or injuring personnel. Continuing ahead, even at slow or half speed, could allow the towline to swing back and get tangled, creating a hazardous situation. Stopping the engines entirely would not actively pull the towline clear. Therefore, backing down on the engines is the safest action to take in this scenario.