Question 237 Deck Safety

The correct answer is D) 16. VHF channel 16 is the international distress, safety, and calling frequency, and should be avoided as a working channel. It is reserved for emergency communications and hailing other vessels. Using channel 16 for routine conversations would tie up the frequency and prevent it from being available for its intended purpose of handling emergency and safety-related communications. The other answer choices (7A, 8, and 9) are all available for use as working channels, but channel 16 must be kept clear for its critical emergency function.