Question 1375 Deck Safety

70% to pass

When in command of a lifeboat under oars, what does the command "Backwater" mean?

A complete stroke, stop rowing, dip blade about halfway into water, hold water to stop the way on the boat
B complete the stroke, come to "Oars", raise oars smartly to vertical, rest handles on footing, trim blades fore and aft
C lift oars to vertical position, trim blades fore and aft with handles resting on footings
D row in astern motion
AI Explanation

The correct answer is D) row in astern motion. When the command "Backwater" is given while in command of a lifeboat under oars, the proper response is to row in an astern motion. This maneuver allows the lifeboat to move backwards or in reverse, which can be useful for maneuvering in tight spaces or controlling the boat's speed and direction. The other answer choices do not accurately describe the meaning of the "Backwater" command. Options A, B, and C describe different oar handling techniques, but do not involve rowing in an astern or backwards motion as required by the "Backwater" command.

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