Question 2096 Deck Safety

The correct answer is B) Pumping the bilges. Pumping the bilges helps improve a vessel's stability by removing excess water from the bilge, which can build up and negatively impact the vessel's center of gravity. Having excess water in the bilge can make the vessel less stable and more prone to heeling or capsizing. Removing this water through bilge pumping helps restore the vessel's intended stability. The other options are incorrect because: A) Closing watertight doors does not directly impact stability. C) Consuming fuel from a full tank does not improve stability, as the change in weight distribution is minimal. D) Loading cargo on deck can actually decrease stability by raising the vessel's center of gravity.