Question 178 Deck Safety

The correct answer is D) the Coast Guard vessel is taking a radio direction finder bearing on your vessel. When a Coast Guard vessel requests that you give a "long count", it is an indication that they are using a radio direction finder to determine the direction and approximate location of your vessel. The long count helps the Coast Guard vessel calibrate and fine-tune their direction finding equipment to pinpoint your position. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) the Coast Guard vessel would not need to request a long count just to test its receiver, B) a long count does not indicate an issue with your radio transmitter, and C) a long count is not used to provide your latitude and longitude position.